Summer Home Maintenance
Keep your home cool, your yard healthy, and your outdoor spaces ready for summer living. Focus on AC maintenance, outdoor prep, and storm readiness.
30
Total Tasks
12
Critical Tasks
Cooling & HVAC
Replace AC filter monthly
Must DoHeavy use means filters clog faster. Check every 2-4 weeks during summer.
Clean outdoor AC unit
Must DoRemove debris from around the condenser. Hose down coils gently.
Check AC refrigerant lines
Should DoInspect insulation on copper lines running to outdoor unit.
Clean air vents and registers
Should DoVacuum and wipe down supply and return vents for better airflow.
Program thermostat for efficiency
Should DoSet higher temps when away. Each degree saves 1-3% on cooling costs.
Check ductwork for leaks
Nice to DoLeaky ducts waste 20-30% of cooled air. Check accessible areas.
Outdoor Living & Deck
Inspect and clean deck
Must DoPower wash if needed. Check for loose boards, popped nails, rot.
Seal or stain deck
Should DoIf water doesn't bead on wood, it's time to reseal. Best done early summer.
Check patio furniture
Should DoTighten bolts, check for rust, clean cushions, apply protectant.
Service grill
Should DoDeep clean grates, check burners, inspect gas connections.
Test outdoor lighting
Nice to DoReplace bulbs, clean fixtures, check timers and sensors.
Clean and fill bird baths/fountains
Nice to DoChange water weekly to prevent mosquito breeding.
Lawn & Garden
Adjust mowing height
Must DoRaise mower height to 3-4 inches. Taller grass shades roots and retains moisture.
Water deeply but infrequently
Must Do1 inch per week, early morning. Deep watering encourages deep roots.
Check irrigation system
Must DoTest all zones, adjust sprinkler heads, fix leaks. Water early AM.
Mulch garden beds
Should Do2-3 inches of mulch retains moisture and keeps roots cool.
Fertilize lawn (if needed)
Should DoLight fertilization only in early summer. Avoid during heat waves.
Control weeds and pests
Should DoHand pull weeds when small. Monitor for grubs and treat if needed.
Exterior & Structure
Inspect roof and flashing
Must DoLook for damaged shingles, cracked flashing. Summer is ideal for repairs.
Check caulking around windows
Should DoReplace cracked or missing caulk to keep cool air in, hot air out.
Clean and inspect gutters
Should DoRemove debris from spring. Ensure proper drainage before summer storms.
Power wash siding
Nice to DoRemove dirt, mildew, pollen. Check for damage while cleaning.
Touch up exterior paint
Nice to DoAddress peeling or fading areas. Dry weather ideal for painting.
Inspect and clean dryer vent
Must DoClear lint buildup from exterior vent. Fire hazard and efficiency issue.
Storm & Safety
Trim trees near structures
Must DoRemove dead branches and limbs hanging over house, deck, power lines.
Review storm preparation
Must DoKnow your plan, check supplies, review insurance coverage.
Test sump pump
Must DoPour water in pit to trigger pump. Ensure discharge drains away from house.
Check smoke and CO detectors
Must DoTest all units, replace batteries. Good mid-year check.
Secure outdoor items
Should DoKnow what needs to come in during storms. Have a plan for furniture, plants.
Check basement for moisture
Should DoSummer humidity can cause basement dampness. Use dehumidifier if needed.
Heat Wave Survival Guide
When temperatures soar, keep your home comfortable and your AC running efficiently with these tips.
Keep Cool Efficiently
- Close blinds on south and west-facing windows during the day
- Use ceiling fans to feel 4°F cooler (counter-clockwise direction)
- Avoid using oven - grill outside or use microwave
- Run heat-generating appliances at night
- Open windows at night when cooler, close in morning
Protect Your AC
- Don't set thermostat below 70°F - strains the system
- Keep outdoor unit clear and shaded if possible
- Change filter more frequently during heavy use
- Close vents in unused rooms to improve efficiency
- Have a backup plan if AC fails during heat wave
Watch for Warning Signs
- AC running constantly but not cooling
- Unusual noises from AC unit
- Ice on refrigerant lines
- Higher than normal energy bills
- Uneven cooling throughout house
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my lawn in summer?
Water deeply but infrequently - about 1 inch per week total, including rainfall. Water early morning (before 10 AM) to reduce evaporation. Deep, infrequent watering encourages deeper root growth, making grass more drought-resistant. Avoid frequent shallow watering which encourages shallow roots.
What temperature should I set my AC to in summer?
The Department of Energy recommends 78°F when home and 85°F when away for optimal efficiency. Each degree cooler costs 1-3% more on energy bills. Use ceiling fans to feel 4°F cooler without lowering the thermostat. A programmable thermostat can automatically adjust when you're away.
How do I maintain my deck in summer?
Start with a thorough cleaning - sweep, then power wash if needed. Check for loose boards, popped nails, and signs of rot. If water no longer beads on the surface, it's time to reseal or stain. Apply sealant or stain in early summer when temperatures are consistently above 50°F and rain isn't expected for 24-48 hours.
Why is my AC not cooling well?
Common causes include: dirty air filter (change it first), blocked outdoor unit (clear debris), refrigerant leak (call a pro), dirty coils (clean them), improper thermostat settings, or undersized unit. If the system is over 10-15 years old, it may be losing efficiency. Call an HVAC technician for persistent issues.
How can I reduce summer energy bills?
Raise thermostat a few degrees when away, use ceiling fans, close blinds during the day, seal air leaks around windows and doors, ensure ducts aren't leaking, cook outdoors, run appliances at night, and keep AC filter clean. Programmable or smart thermostats can save 10% or more on cooling costs.
When should I fertilize my lawn in summer?
Light fertilization is best in early summer (June). Avoid fertilizing during heat waves or drought - it can burn the grass. Cool-season grasses (like fescue) should not be fertilized in hot summer months. If your lawn is stressed from heat, focus on proper watering rather than fertilizing.