A Simple Summer Home Maintenance Checklist for Every Homeowner
Keep Your Home Cool, Clean, and Ready for the Season
Summer is here, and while you’re soaking up the sunshine, don’t forget that your home needs some TLC too! Whether you’re a brand-new homeowner or have years of experience under your belt, a seasonal maintenance check is one of the best ways to protect your investment—and enjoy a more comfortable, efficient home.
Here’s a simple summer home maintenance checklist to help you stay on top of it all (without losing your entire weekend). Let’s dive in:
1. Scrub Your Front Door & Siding
A fresh-looking exterior is always in season. Give your entry door a quick wipe-down with a wet cloth or gentle cleaner, then break out the hose—or a pressure washer—for your siding. This once-per-season task instantly boosts your curb appeal.
Pro tip: Early morning or late afternoon is best for washing to avoid streaks from the sun.
2. Clear the Gutters & Downspouts
Summer storms can leave a mess in your gutters. Remove debris and check that your downspouts are clear and directing water away from your foundation. Ignoring this chore can lead to leaks, cracks, or even basement flooding.
Check every few weeks throughout the season to stay ahead of buildup.
3. Rinse Window & Door Screens
Opening windows for a cross breeze? Make sure you’re not letting in dust or pollen. Lightly rinse your screens with water and wipe them down with a cloth. This keeps air flowing fresh and allergens to a minimum.
4. Replace Drafty Windows
If your windows are cracked or letting warm air in, consider upgrading to energy-efficient models. They’ll help keep the cool air in, the heat out, and even reduce your energy bills. Bonus: New windows can give your home a clean, updated look!
5. Dust Ceiling Fans & Reverse the Spin
Dust builds up fast on ceiling fan blades—especially when they’re running all day. Wipe them down with a damp cloth, and don’t forget to reverse the spin direction to counterclockwise. This pushes cool air down and helps circulate the breeze more effectively.
6. Clean the Air Conditioning System
Swap out your AC filter (ideally every 90 days), and if you suffer from seasonal allergies, you might want to do it more often. A clean filter means better airflow, cleaner air, and a more efficient system. You can also hire a pro to clean inside the vents and ducts if you notice reduced performance.
7. Check for Plumbing Leaks
Inspect under sinks, around faucets, and at hose bibs for signs of leaks. Even tiny drips can waste a lot of water over time—not to mention increase your utility bills. Fixing them now can save you big headaches later.
8. Vacuum Refrigerator & Freezer Coils
Your fridge works overtime in the summer, and dirty coils can make it less efficient. Unplug the unit, vacuum the coils (usually on the back or underneath), and brush off any stubborn dust. Doing this a few times a year can extend its life and improve cooling.
9. Freshen Up Outdoor Furniture & Patio
Before the cookouts and backyard parties begin, give your outdoor furniture a rinse and scrub down your patio or deck with a pressure washer or stiff broom. Keep up with it by sweeping weekly to prevent buildup.
Bonus Tip: Call in the Pros for the Big Stuff
Some tasks—like window replacement or AC servicing—are best left to professionals. Don’t hesitate to bring in the experts to ensure the job is done safely and properly.
Final Thoughts
With a little routine maintenance, your home can be the relaxing, refreshing oasis you need this summer. Keep this checklist handy, and check things off as you go—you’ll thank yourself later.
If you ever have questions about upgrades that can improve your home’s value, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to help, whether it’s real estate advice, homeownership tips, or a recommendation for a local pro.
