When summer approaches here in the New York suburbs, you welcome the warming sun and look forward to all this too-brief season has to offer. But summer, just like the rest of the seasons, isn’t just about seasonal-appropriate outdoor activities. What goes on indoors is equally important to keep your home in the best shape possible.
So, before you lock up and head to the beach for a week or two, we suggest you find time for these useful and often necessary chores.
Give the grill a deep cleaning.
Check the condition of grates and replace if needed. Empty and clean the grease catch tray thoroughly and check all propane tank connections and fittings for signs of damage.
Inspect the deck
This is for loose or damaged boards and protruding nails. Not sure if the deck needs to be resealed? Sprinkle some water on the floorboards – if it beads up, you’re good for another season. If the water soaks into the wood, it’s time to reseal.
Wash exterior and interior windows
It not only to make them sparkle but to help improve the appearance of your home. While washing, check for cracks in window frames and have them sealed, as needed, to prevent moisture from getting in and conditioned air from escaping.
Clean out the dryer vents
This check hoses and connections for damage. Give your dryer (and utility bills) a break by taking advantage of the sun and air drying laundry whenever it’s practical to do so.
Thoroughly clean and sweep porches and garages while inspecting for cracks and gaps that could enable entry for unwelcome critters and rainwater.
Check all outdoor tools and equipment and dust them off as needed. Also, remove any residual grim and dirt on blades and filters. Also, be on the lookout for rust, especially on older tools. Should you discover any, use steel wool to gently rub rust from metal parts. For tough spots, use a degreaser, and then spray the moving parts with a corrosion protector and repair or replace if necessary.
Inspect all outdoor faucets and hoses for leaks. Remember, even a trickle can add up to gallons of wasted water throughout the summer.
Whether you water your lawn by hand or have an in-ground irrigation system, plan your watering schedule carefully. Water in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler and saturate the lawn a couple times per week instead of giving it quick watering spurts daily.
Inspect outdoor toys and play equipment. Check plastic play structures for cracks that can pinch little fingers and toes, and tighten bolts and screws on wooden play structures to ensure they are sturdy and safe.
Also, if you haven’t done so already, contact Air Professionals to schedule a central or ductless air system tune-up and inspection. Making this an annual habit will enable your system to run better, last longer, and help keep your utility bills in check.