Summer is here! It's time for fun in the sun, cold beverages and blasting A/C to beat the heat. Boost your summer comfort with these hot home maintenance tips for summer.
The importance of seasonal home & property maintenance
A clean, well-maintained home is the perfect environment for you to fully kick back, relax and ride out the heat wave. But it takes a concerted effort to keep all the inner and outer workings of your house running smoothly. Consistent seasonal maintenance is the secret sauce to happy homeownership — and summer is no exception!
This checklist can help guide you through the essential home and property maintenance tasks this summer. By staying on top of our to-dos on cooler days, you can ride out the scorchers in style.
1. Check your cooling system
- Inspect and clean air conditioning filters.
- Test your air conditioner to ensure it's cooling effectively.
- Consider scheduling a professional Air Conditioning Tune Up.
- Clean ceiling fans with a damp rag. You can clean portable fans by unlatching the cage, too!
2. Clean & inspect your gutters
- Remove any debris, leaves, and twigs from gutters and downspouts.
- Check for leaks or damage and repair as needed.
- Ensure gutters are securely attached to your home.
3. Inspect your roof
- Look for loose or damaged shingles and replace as necessary.
- Check for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or moss growth.
- Schedule a professional roof inspection if needed.
4. Maintain your lawn & garden
- Mow the lawn regularly to keep it healthy and looking its best.
- Trim bushes and trees away from the house to prevent damage.
- Add a layer of mulch to garden beds keeps weeds down and helps the soil retain its moisture.
- Water plants and flowers regularly, especially during hot weather.
5. Clean outdoor furniture & equipment
- Wash patio furniture and cushions with mild soap and water. A pressure washer can help, too!
- Inspect outdoor play equipment for any signs of wear or damage.
- Oil and lubricate moving parts of lawn mowers and other outdoor tools.
- Gas grills: Turn the heat up and let the grill run with the lid closed for half an hour. Let it cool and brush off any residue left on cooking surfaces with a grill brush. Wipe down the exterior with a damp sponge and gentle cleanser and then wash out the drip pans. Learn how to clean a BBQ from our friends over at Blue Flame Kitchen!
- Charcoal grills: Empty out any leftover ash and charcoal and scrub the whole thing, inside and out. Let dry before using.
- Fix pinhole leaks in hoses by wrapping electrical tape around the hose when it’s dry.
- Check for faucet leaks. A plumber can help with the repair.
6. Seal & protect outdoor surfaces
- Sweep porch floors, then mop with an all-purpose cleaner. For tough grime, use a scrub brush.
- Check decks, patios, and fences for signs of wear and treat with a sealant if necessary.
- Repair any cracks or damage to concrete or pavement.
- Consider applying a fresh coat of paint or stain to wooden surfaces.
7. Check your smoke & carbon monoxide detectors
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they're working properly.
- Replace batteries if needed, and replace any expired detectors.
8. Inspect & clean your chimney
- Schedule a professional chimney sweep to remove any built-up debris.
- Check for cracks or damage to the chimney structure.
- Ensure the chimney cap is in good condition and free of debris.
9. Inspect & clean your windows & screens
- Wash windows inside and out to remove dirt and grime.
- Check window screens for holes or tears and repair as needed.
- Consider installing sun-blocking film or retractable screens to reduce heat and glare.
10. Prepare for summer storms
- Trim branches near the house that could pose a hazard during storms.
- Check and clean your sump pump to ensure it's functioning properly.
- Have an emergency kit prepared in case of power outages or severe weather.
11. Save on your energy bill
- Install an outdoor clothesline or set up your dryer rack outside. Air-drying your clothes can save
- Draw curtains and blinds in the morning to block out the sun during the day.
- Open windows in the evening to let in cool air. Give your A/C a break!
Proactive maintenance makes homeownership a breeze
A clean, well-maintained home is the perfect environment for you to fully kick back, relax and ride out the next heat wave. Started on this list early in the season to enjoy your indoor and outdoor spaces to the max this summer.
While an Alberta scorcher isn't the best time for home maintenance, having a clean home that runs smoothly is ideal for hot days. By following this comprehensive checklist, you can ensure that your home is ready to handle the next heat dome. From staying cool to staying safe, these simple maintenance tasks will help you enjoy the season to the fullest.
Too hot for work around the house?
Beat the heat... the easy way.
ATCO Energy Home Services are the solution. Book home maintenance services in Alberta this summer to keep your home safe, functional and, most importantly, comfy. Cool? Cool.
