Homeownership includes routine and consistent maintenance for your home, which is essential to ensure its longevity and save on bills.
Tips to consider in the summer months for your home:
- Service the HVAC and air conditioning: Before the hot summer months, have your air conditioning system inspected and serviced by a professional to ensure it operates efficiently and avoids unexpected breakdowns. Twice a year the HVAC should be inspected by a professional HVAC technician, and keeping a regular contract with a service provider will keep a homeowner on track with regular pre scheduled maintenance
- Seal windows and doors: Check for drafts around windows and doors. Seal any gaps or cracks to improve energy efficiency and keep cool air in during the summer. This can save on energy bills.
- Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors: Test and replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re in working order. At least once a year is recommended. Make this an annual “alarm check” on the calendar as a reminder.
- Check and clean the HVAC filters: Clean or replace the air filters in your HVAC system regularly to maintain good indoor air quality and keep the system running efficiently. A quick tip is is setting a reminder on the 1st of every month to replace the filter. Energy bills can be kept lower the cleaner the furnace remains.
- Inspect and clean the deck/patio: Check for any loose boards or nails on your deck or patio. Clean and seal the surface if needed to protect it from the elements.
- Maintain the lawn and landscaping: Keep the grass mowed, trim bushes, and remove weeds regularly to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent pests from taking hold.
- Inspect and clean the roof including all gutters: Check the roof for any damage, loose shingles, or signs of wear. Gutters and downspouts can wreak havoc on siding and basements if full when water builds up causing potential water damage.
- Check the exterior: Inspect the siding, paint and caulking for any signs of deterioration. Repair or repaint as needed to protect against weathering and pests.
- Inspect the plumbing: Check for leaks in faucets, hoses, and irrigation systems. Make necessary repairs to avoid plumbing damage and excess water bills.
Maintenance = more money in your pocket
Home maintenance can help save on short and long term utility bills.
- Protect against pests: Check for signs of pests like termites, ants, or rodents. Being on a routine maintenance pest control is a great way to prevent further damage by many types of pests.
- Clean and maintain the pool (if applicable): If you have a pool, clean and maintain it regularly to keep the water safe and prevent further damage to the longevity of the filters and liner.
- Get quotes for trimming back trees in the Fall: Keeping trees trimmed and away from the house prevents further damage during storm season as well as keeps leaves away from clogging the gutters. Summer storms can be intense in the Midwest.
- Check the sump pump: Making sure your sump pump is working regularly helps to prevent water intrusion in the home. Plus, it is always highly recommended to have a back up sump pump if living in the Midwest in case the regular pump goes out.
- Check the sprinkler system: Ensure your sprinkler system is working correctly and adjusted to avoid overwatering and excessive water bills. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation.
Regular summer home maintenance not only helps preserve your property value and costly repairs.
