The summertime is quickly approaching, the weather is getting warmer and the days are getting longer. For many, the summer heat translates to days at the beach and a variety of fun activities. But for many homeowners, your home requires TLC after every changing season. It’s time to ensure your home is ready for the summer weather with our helpful tips!
1. Change the air filter of your HVAC system
One of the most important things you can do to prepare for summertime weather is to change your air filters. During the summer, there is more dust in the air than at any other time during the year. Changing the air filter can help you save money on power. In addition, it also keeps your HVAC system from working too hard to cool down your home. Likewise, this can result in burnout and an even larger and more expensive problem to fix.
2. Add shade to your windows
Planting shrubs near your home’s windows or installing awnings or screens on them will provide enough shade to maintain your home cool as they will stop the sun from overheating the glass. Without shade, the excess heat will transfer to the inside of your home, which will overwork your cooling system, increasing your power bill.
3. Make sure your home is properly sealed for Summertime
It doesn’t make sense to try to cool off the outside portion of your home, does it? Well, any unsealed air leaks in the caulking around your windows and doors do just that. They let the cool air escape from your house and let the hot air in, so make sure you test all the stripping around the windows and doors and seal up any air leaks you find. You will reap the rewards as soon as you do.
4. Get your roof and siding inspected
Having your roof and siding professionally inspected can help you detect cracks, rot, and damaged areas that may need to be changed. It will also help you detect any mold and dirt that should be cleared out to prevent any air leaks from the inside, as well as rainwater leaks that could cause even more damage to your home’s structure.
5. Update your insulation for Summertime
Your home’s insulation plays a dual role. On one hand, it stops the cold air from getting in during the winter and on the other, it keeps the cool air from escaping during the hot summer weather. Additionally, you may find that certain unwanted guests may have found their way into your attic during the winter and may have damaged the insulation, making this the perfect time for any replacement and repair you may need.
6. Get those ceiling fans cleaned up
The last thing you want during the summertime is to breathe in all the dust that accumulated during the fall and winter on the blades of your ceiling fans. Get them cleaned up and get ready to enjoy the cool air it produces.