Home maintenance probably isn’t at the top of your summer to do list. Between vacations, barbecues, and everything else that comes with the season, it’s easy to put it off. But spending just a little time on a few simple maintenance tasks can help you avoid costly repairs later and keep your home running smoothly.
Best of all, most of these projects only take a few minutes.
Service Your Air Conditioning
Your air conditioner works harder during the summer than at any other time of the year, so it’s worth making sure it’s ready before the hottest days arrive.
A simple tune-up can help it run more efficiently, keep your home cooler, and even lower your energy bills. That’s because a system that’s dirty or overdue for maintenance has to work harder to cool your home. A professional service typically includes cleaning the coils, checking the airflow, inspecting or replacing the filter, and making sure everything is working properly.
Switch Ceiling Fan Blades for Better Airflow
Ceiling fans are easy to overlook, but they can make a big difference in keeping your home comfortable during the summer. With that being said, make sure they’re spinning in the right direction before the weather heats up.
During the warmer months, the blades should rotate counterclockwise to push cool air down and create a breeze. Additionally, don’t forget to wipe any dust from the blades, since a build-up can potentially reduce the fan’s efficiency.
Using ceiling fans can also help you rely less on your air conditioner, which means you might be able to raise your thermostat a few degrees and save money on your energy bill.
Pest Control Check
More bugs can find their ways into your home during the summer months. However, taking a few minutes to look for (and plug) small gaps can alleviate pests like ants, flies, and other unwanted visitors.
Check around your windows and doors, too, for worn weather stripping or small openings. And also examine your window screens for tears or loose edges. Even a small hole is enough for bugs to get inside.
It’s also worth checking around vents, utility lines, and pipes. These are common entry points for insects and even rodents. Sealing a few small gaps is a lot easier than dealing with a pest problem later.
Check Roof and Gutters
Summer storms can roll in quickly, so take a look at your roof and gutters before the heavy rain arrives. A quick inspection can help you catch small issues early, before they turn into expensive repairs.
Check for missing shingles, visible damage, or anything that looks out of place. If something seems off, try to address it as soon as possible. It’s also a good idea to clear out your gutters if they’re full of leaves or debris. When gutters are clogged, water can overflow and pool around your home’s foundation, which may lead to serious water damage.
Takeaway
Summer is a great time to take care of small problems before they turn into bigger ones. It can also be a good time to explore loan options if you’re considering a move or refinancing. The experts at FirstBank Mortgage can walk you through programs that may be a good fit for your situation.
