Summer Maintenance Tips

Goodbye Cicadas, Hello SUMMER!

Here’s a checklist to help you keep things in order for these warmer months. 

• Clean and switch your ceiling fan blade direction to counter clockwise.

  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.

• Wash windows and check screens.

  A good cleaning of the inside of your windows and tracks can help remove any buildup from dust, cooking, smoke, candles and fireplaces. While cleaning the windows, look at the screens to see if repairs are needed. 

• Service your air conditioner.

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

• Hose down your exterior air conditioner unit.

  Air conditioners tend to collect dirt and debris over time, which reduces 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.

• Pressure washing.

  Spruce up the exterior of your home by pressure washing your sidewalks, porches and driveways. Fences and decks can also use a lower pressure cleaning.

• Clean exterior dryer vent.

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

• Check gutters and downspouts.

  Clear buildup and debris from gutter to ensure that downspouts are still routed properly so water drains away from the house.

• 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 mulched areas.