Summer is right around the corner, and while you're busy planning beach trips, backyard barbecues, and poolside lounging, don’t forget to show your home a little seasonal love. Hot temps, summer storms, and extra wear from outdoor living can all take a toll. Let’s walk through a few ways you can get your home summer-ready now and avoid major headaches later!
1. Show Your HVAC Some Love
If your air conditioner is going to work overtime this season, make sure it’s up for the challenge. Replace your air filters, clear debris from around the outdoor unit, clean the condensate drain, and schedule a professional tune-up. Nothing ruins a summer day faster than realizing your AC died during a heatwave.
2. Clean & Inspect Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are MVPs during the summer—but only if they’re working properly. If you're like me, you probably keep the AC running and the fan on high every night. Clean the blades (I promise, they are gross), check for wobbling, and switch the fan direction to spin counterclockwise. This pushes cool air down and helps your home feel more comfortable.
3. Wash the Windows (Yes, Really)
Summer sunshine is great—but only if you can see through your windows. For some reason, self-cleaning windows haven’t been invented yet, much to my disappointment. Give them a good scrub, and while you're at it, check for cracks in the glass and damage to the seals. Clear, clean windows not only brighten your space but also help you catch small problems early.
4. Protect and Maintain Your Deck
Your deck takes a beating during the summer—from sun exposure to foot traffic to rainstorms. Start by pressure washing the surface to remove built-up grime, mold, or mildew. Once clean, inspect for splinters, warped boards, rusted fasteners, or loose railings. If it’s been more than a year since you last sealed or stained it, now’s the time. A quality sealant protects the wood from UV damage and moisture, extending its life and keeping it looking sharp all season long.
5. Clean the Dryer Vent
Dryers tend to run more often during summer thanks to sweaty outfit changes and endless pool towels. Make sure the exterior vent is clear of lint buildup to reduce fire risk. A quick check and vacuuming can go a long way in keeping your laundry room safe and efficient.
6. Check Outdoor Faucets
While you’re outside, take a moment to inspect your outdoor faucets. Look for leaks or drips that could waste water or signal a bigger issue. It’s very common for the O-ring inside a hose or hose sprayer to need replacement. A small leak might seem harmless, but over time it can cause water damage or drive up your utility bills.
7. Know Your Sod: Bermuda vs. Fescue
Landscaping isn't one-size-fits-all, especially when it comes to grass. If you have Bermuda sod, you’re dealing with a warm-season grass that thrives in the heat and loves full sun. Bermuda should be watered deeply at least once per week and fertilized during its growing season (late spring through summer).
Fescue, on the other hand, is a cool-season grass that prefers spring and fall. It struggles in high heat, so during the summer months, you'll want to water it more frequently and avoid heavy fertilization. Over-fertilizing in the heat can actually harm fescue more than help it.
Knowing the difference helps you care for your lawn without overdoing it—or accidentally scorching it into a crispy brown mess. (Trust me, I’ve seen it.)
Final Thoughts
Summer should be about relaxing, not stressing over home repairs. A little preparation now means fewer headaches when the temps are soaring and your to-do list is the last thing you want to think about. Tackle these summer maintenance tips early and enjoy a safe, cool, and carefree season.
Until next time, keep your home maintained and your inspection stress-free.
- Your Fave Female Inspector