Indoor and Outdoor Home Maintenance Checklist for Summer

INDOOR CHECK-LIST

Switch your ceiling fan blade direction to counterclockwise

Did you know that a ceiling fan’s performance is largely based on the direction the blades are spinning? This is because the direction of the blades determines how the air will be circulated within the space. In warmer weather, when you’re trying to cool down interior spaces, the blades should spin counterclockwise to help cool the air by providing a downdraft.

Just don’t forget to switch the blades back to clockwise once the weather gets colder. This will create an updraft to help circulate the warm air around the room. And while you are changing the blade direction, balance any wobbly blades by tightening loose screws and dusting them if needed.

Clean refrigerator coils

The coils under the refrigerator tend to accumulate dust and pet hair. Cleaning them can help your fridge run more economically.

Wash windows and check screens

A good cleaning of the inside of your windows and tracks can help remove buildup from dust, cooking, smoke, candles, and fireplaces. While cleaning the windows, look at the screens to see if repairs are needed. Also, clean any patio door tracks to help them open and close more easily.

Check for air leaks around windows and doors

To help keep cold air in and hot air out, check your windows and doors for leaks. If you find any leaks, consider sealing them with weather stripping or caulking.

OUTDOOR CHECK-LIST

Service your air conditioner

Regular maintenance can help ensure your air conditioner works as efficiently as possible during the summer.

Hose down your exterior air conditioner unit

Air conditioners tend to collect dirt and debris over time, reducing their efficiency. Use a garden hose to spray the unit with water to remove buildup and help it run more efficiently. Also, remove any nearby plants or weeds that could grow inside the unit.

Wash windows

Wash the outside of your windows with soapy, lukewarm water to help remove any water spots or dust buildup. Then, dry with a microfiber cloth. If you notice window streaks, you may want to reserve window cleaning for a cooler day or after the sun sets. The hot air can quickly evaporate cleaning products, leaving visible streaks behind.

Wash siding

While it might be tempting to use a pressure washer for your home’s exterior, a garden hose is recommended to avoid potentially damaging the outside of your home or having water get under the siding. Apply a coat of fresh paint if needed and repair any damaged vinyl or aluminum siding.

Look for signs of critters and bugs

Check garden plants, trees, and shrubs for insect infestations. Termites can easily go undetected until considerable damage has been done. Look for telltale signs like flaking wood or mud buildup and tunneling systems in the exterior wood of your home. Professional pest control inspections are recommended if you suspect possible infestation. Check out these tips for other pests like moles and deer, as well as for keeping birds away from your house.

Pressure washing

Spruce up the exterior of your home by pressure washing your sidewalks, porches, and driveways. Lower-pressure cleaning can also benefit fences and decks.

Tidy up your landscaping

Here are some ideas:

• Trim shrubs and bushes as needed.
• Get weeds under control.
• Remove dead or unhealthy plants so that others may thrive.
• Consider replacing the removed plants with new ones.
• Introduce some pops of color to help improve the curb appeal of your home.
• Add a fresh layer of mulch to mulch areas.

Trim trees

Trees provide shady ambiance and should be well cared for to avoid potential damage to your home. To help prevent storm-related damage, keep their branches pruned and safe from power lines and your home. Inspect trees for signs of decay, such as cracks or hollowed limbs. Arborists or tree care professionals can help with the cutting and removal of large or high limbs.

Check gutters and downspouts

Safely clear all debris from the gutters and ensure that the downspouts are still routed properly so that water drains away from the house.

Inspect the roof

While on the ground, step back from your home and inspect the roof for maintenance from all sides to see if shingles are cracked, curled or missing.

Clean exterior dryer vent

Clean the outside clothes dryer vent to remove any built-up lint and allow your dryer to work more efficiently.

Inspect driveways and walkways for damage

Inspect the pavement for cracks and holes. Repair them to help prevent accidental slips, trips, and falls. This may also help you avoid larger repairs or resurfacing in the future.

If you see weeds popping up between cracks in the pavement, resist the urge to pull them up. You’ll remove the upper part of the weed, but the root system will remain intact, and new growth will return within a few weeks. For a cost-effective solution, boil water in a kettle, carefully carry it outside, and pour the water on any weeds to kill them off for the season.