We love summer for so many reasons. It’s the season of sun, warmth, barbecues with family and friends and of course numerous festivals and music events. No matter what you are doing, the goal is to be outside as much as possible. Summer is not all fun and games all the time. If you’re a homeowner, the summer means yard work and home maintenance from time to time.
Keeping things cool
Is your air conditioner struggling to keep your house cool? Routine diagnostic checks and maintenance will ensure that your home is kept at a comfortable temperature during the intense heat outdoors. If you can schedule a maintenance check up prior to the summer, you can be ahead of the game. Replace the filters on your unit. Dirty filters will cause inadequate air flow through your home and will strain the system from running efficiently. Make sure you choose the correct filter for your home as well.
Checking the wiring will also ensure your unit is running efficiently. Faulty wiring is not only hazardous but it can also be a sign of overheating or wear. Remember to turn off the unit prior to working with the wires. If this type of maintenance is beyond your comfort level, please call your local HVAC professional.
Adding special coverings for you windows will also keep the heat out and the cool in. Decorative shades and curtains. Cellular shades will allow for light to penetrate while keeping drafts away. Opt for window treatments that will still allow you to enjoy the beauty of summer looking outside while keeping the cool air in. You can also add heat deflecting window film as a way to salvage your view to the outdoors while protecting your furnishings from the damaging sun.
Keep Your Home Looking Beautiful
When it comes to the outside of your home, it’s the first thing people see when they drive or walk by. You want it to look great, especially in the summer months. Take a walk around your house. Do you see mold, dirt, a spider web here and there? Then it may be time to give your home a good cleaning. A great tool for this is a pressure washer. Pressure washers are perfect for removing stubborn mildew, dirt and debris from the side of your home, walkways and driveways. Using the proper spray wand and multi-use cleaning solution will get your homes’ siding looking brand new. If using for window cleaning, be mindful that you must lower the pressure of the hose and gun to prevent any damage. Use a 60 degree angled nozzle for best results.
Check your gutters for any debris. During heavy storms, tree leaves and branches may make their way onto and into your gutters. You’ll want to ensure that your gutters will flow water away from your home, so keeping these clear is essential.
Cleaning up the landscape will make your homes’ exterior look crisp and clean for the summer. Prune back shrubs as needed, this will depend on the type of shrub you have planted. Removing old mulch and replacing with fresh mulch will add that pop of color back into your landscape. Check around for weeds and outgrowth between your garden and hardscape. Use weed killing spray to kill the current weeds and keep new growth from coming back. It’s the small things that will make a huge impact in the look of your landscape.
Check outdoor cord connections and outlets
Frequently check your outdoor outlets for any wear or corrosion. If you see any, it’s time for a replacement. Be sure all your outdoor outlets have the required weather resistant closures so your cords can be plugged in while also being protected from the elements. If you’re making connections for water features or outdoor lighting, protect your outdoor extension cord connections. Keeping your extension cord connections will keep your yard and family safe and ensure that the power continues to run efficiently the entire summer.