By Melissa Forte-Litscher
Summer is here! Kids are out of school and it’s vacation time. In our area, that means there are picnics and barbecues to have, beach outings to plan, and boats to ride. Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s also a crucial time to give some attention to home maintenance. Regular maintenance improves the comfort, efficiency, and safety of your home and can prevent costly repairs in the future.
First off, check your air conditioning system. Start inside by cleaning or replacing the air filters to improve air quality and efficiency. Pour about a full cup of vinegar down the condensation line to inhibit algae growth, which can block the drain line. Clear away any debris, weeds, or obstructions from the outdoor unit for proper airflow. A professional HVAC inspection will detect any potential issues and make sure your system is running smoothly during the hottest days of the year. Efficient insulation is also important for keeping you cool and reducing energy costs. Inspect the caulking around windows, doors, and other exterior openings for any gaps. Seal them with weatherstripping or caulk to prevent air and water leaks.
Next you need to inspect your gutters to protect your home’s foundation and prevent water damage. Clear out any leaves, twigs, or debris that may have accumulated in the gutters and downspouts. Make sure that the water flows freely through the system, directing it away from the foundation. Summer is a good time to trim back any overgrown trees or shrubs that may be touching your home. This can prevent additional build up in your gutters, prevent damage to your property, and promote healthy plant growth.
Don’t forget to give your outdoor spaces some love; this is the perfect time to spruce up for those backyard barbecues and pool parties. Clean and inspect your deck or patio area; sweep away debris, pressure wash if needed, and apply a fresh coat of sealer or stain to protect the wood or concrete surface. Check your outdoor furniture for damage, tighten loose screws, and replace worn-out cushions.
If you have an irrigation system, test it for proper functioning. Adjust sprinkler heads, repair any leaks, and be sure water is directed where it’s needed most, not watering the sidewalk or fence. Also, inspect and repair your fences and gates to maintain security, especially if you have a pool. Speaking of pools, keep the skimmers emptied, remove leaves and debris, and maintain your pool chemicals. Those frequent summer showers can interfere with the pH balance. Though emerald green is a great color for the Gulf, it’s awful in the pool. Before hosting your summer cookouts, clean and inspect the barbecue grill. Remove grease buildup, check for gas leaks, and ensure all parts are in working order. Don’t forget to fill the tank; no one likes to run out of gas with half cooked burgers on the grill!
Lastly, outdoor lighting not only improves the look of your home, but is also important for safety and security. Inspect and clean light fixtures, replacing any faulty bulbs, maybe with energy-efficient LED bulbs that will save energy and last longer. Keep all pathways, entryways, and key areas around your home well-lit, creating a welcoming and secure space for your family and guests.
While summer is a time for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors, it’s vital to schedule in some time for home maintenance. You can easily perform some of these tasks just before taking part in your favorite outside activities. Enjoy your summer along the Emerald Coast. And, if you are looking for your NextHome, I’m at your service.
