The transition to summer brings unique challenges and opportunities for homeowners and with longer days and rising temperatures, a bit of prep work can make all the difference in keeping things cool, comfortable, and efficient.
Here are 3 helpful tips.
HVAC System Check-Up
You don’t want your AC giving up on you when it’s scorching hot outside. Keeping your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system in good shape means a cool, comfy home all summer long, and it helps keep those energy bills in check.
For example, you want to:
- Call in a professional to give your AC a once-over. They’ll check the refrigerant, electrical connections, and overall performance.
- Clean or replace air filters. Dusty filters make your system work harder. Check and clean them or swap them out every 1-3 months.
- Look for any gaps or leaks in the ducts. Seal them up with duct mastic or aluminum foil tape to keep the cool air flowing where you need it.
- Make sure your thermostat is reading the temperature correctly. A programmable or smart thermostat can help you keep your home cool more efficiently.
Service Frequently Used Appliances
Chances are that your fridge, electric grill, dishwasher, and other appliances get a real workout during the summer. Regularly having your appliances serviced and maintaining them yourself keeps them running smoothly, saves energy, and prevents inconvenient breakdowns.
For example:
- Refrigerator: Clean the condenser coils at the back or bottom to help it cool better. Check the door seals and replace them if they’re worn.
- Dishwasher: Clean the spray arms and filters to ensure good water flow. Inspect and replace the door gasket if needed. Run a cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaner to get rid of buildup.
- Washing machine: Look over the hoses for any signs of wear or leaks and replace if necessary. Clean the detergent drawer and run an empty cycle with a cleaner to remove residue.
- Outdoor grill: Give the grates and burners a good scrub. Check for gas leaks if you use a gas grill and make sure the propane tank or gas line is in good shape. Swap out any worn parts to keep it safe and cooking well.
Lawn and Garden Preparation
A bit of prep work goes a long way in keeping your yard looking great all summer. Healthy grass and plants not only look good but can also handle the heat better.
For example, you want to:
- Use a lawn aerator to punch small holes in the soil, letting water, air, and nutrients reach the grass roots more easily.
- Spread a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around plants, trees, and flower beds. It helps keep the soil moist, cuts down on weeds, and keeps the temperature steady.
- Regularly trim and prune bushes, hedges, and trees to promote healthy growth. Remove any dead or diseased branches.
- Check your sprinkler system for leaks or broken heads. Adjust them for even coverage and set them to water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation. A drip irrigation system can save water and keep your plants happy.
Really, from making sure your AC is up to snuff to giving your appliances a summer check-up and sprucing up your lawn and garden, a few simple steps can help you breeze through the season with ease. Try out these tips!
