Summer 2024 Home Maintenance Checklist

Summer Home Maintenance Checklist

Check out these interior and exterior home maintenance tips to consider while the weather is warm. Summer is the perfect time to take advantage of the warm weather and get some work done around the house. Keep your home performing efficiently during the summer by adding these tasks to your home maintenance plan.

Indoor Spaces

1. Switch Ceiling Fan Direction to Counterclockwise

   • In warmer weather, make sure your ceiling fan blades spin counterclockwise to create a cooling downdraft. Don’t forget to switch them back to clockwise in the winter for a warming updraft. While you’re at it, tighten any loose screws and dust the blades.

2. Clean Refrigerator Coils

   • Dust and pet hair can accumulate on the coils under your refrigerator, making it work harder. Clean them to help your fridge run more economically.

3. Wash Windows and Check Screens

   • Clean the inside of your windows and tracks to remove buildup from dust, cooking, smoke, candles, and fireplaces. Check your screens for repairs and clean any patio door tracks to ensure they open and close smoothly.

4. Check for Air Leaks Around Windows and Doors

   • To keep the cold air in and the hot air out, check for leaks around your windows and doors. Seal any leaks with weather stripping or caulking.

Outdoor Home Maintenance

1. Service Your Air Conditioner

   • Regular maintenance ensures your air conditioner works efficiently during the summer.

2. Hose Down Your Exterior Air Conditioner Unit

   • Dirt and debris can reduce your air conditioner’s efficiency. Use a garden hose to spray the unit and remove buildup. Also, clear any nearby plants or weeds that could interfere with the unit.

3. Wash Windows

   • Clean the outside of your windows with soapy lukewarm water to remove water spots and dust buildup. Dry them with a microfiber cloth. Consider washing windows on a cooler day or after sunset to avoid streaks.

4. Wash Siding

   • Instead of using a pressure washer, which could damage your home’s exterior, use a garden hose. Apply a fresh coat of paint if needed and repair any damaged vinyl or aluminum siding.

5. Look for Signs of Critters and Bugs

   • Inspect your garden plants, trees, and shrubs for insect infestations. Termites can cause significant damage, so look for signs like flaking wood or mud buildup. Professional pest control inspections are recommended if you suspect an infestation.

6. Pressure Washing

   • Clean up the exterior of your home by pressure washing sidewalks, porches, and driveways. Use lower pressure for fences and decks.

7. Tidy Up Your Landscaping

   • Trim shrubs and bushes, control weeds, remove dead or unhealthy plants, and consider planting new ones. Add some pops of color to improve curb appeal and a fresh layer of mulch to mulched areas.

8. Trim Trees

   • Keep tree branches pruned and at a safe distance from power lines and your home to prevent storm-related damage. Inspect trees for signs of decay and hire professionals for cutting and removal of large or high limbs.

9. Check Gutters and Downspouts

   • Clear all debris from gutters and ensure downspouts are routed properly to drain water away from the house.

10. Inspect the Roof

    • From the ground, inspect your roof for maintenance issues such as cracked, curled, or missing shingles.

11. Clean Exterior Dryer Vent

    • Remove built-up lint from the outside dryer vent to improve efficiency.

12. Inspect Driveways and Walkways for Damage

    • Check for cracks and holes in the pavement and address them to prevent slips and falls. For weeds, use boiling water to kill them off without damaging the pavement.

Garage Maintenance

• Hazardous Materials and Storage

  • Don’t store hazardous materials like paint, solvents, and chemicals in the garage where children can access them. Dispose of them properly. Avoid storing heat-sensitive or combustible materials in the garage.

• Tool Storage and Floor Inspection

  • Store power tools in locked cabinets to keep them away from children. Inspect the garage floor for grease spots from leaking car fluids and have your car serviced if needed.

Remember, while these tasks are perfect for summer, keep in mind other safety checks throughout the year like cleaning your chimney and checking carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and smoke detectors.

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By keeping up with these maintenance tasks, you'll ensure your home stays in great shape all summer long. If you have any questions or need professional assistance, feel free to reach out. Let's keep our homes safe and efficient together!

For more tips or to schedule a consultation, contact me at 405-784-6580 or will@willflanaganrealty.com. Happy summer!