Summer Home Maintenance Checklist

If you’re getting ready for summer or it’s already here, it’s essential to perform DIY home inspections and maintenance to ensure your house is prepared for the upcoming hot months. Whether it’s your primary residence or a summer retreat, following this guide will help you avoid home system failures and other inconveniences.

This do-it-yourself guide is specifically designed for current homeowners. If you’re in the process of buying a home, you should refer to our guide on what to expect from a general home inspection conducted by a professional.

Why is summer home maintenance important?

The summer heat can be harsh, depending on your location. As temperatures rise, both indoor and outdoor home appliances and systems undergo significant strain. It’s crucial to ensure that your home is capable of handling the heat and keeping you cool.

When should I start summer home maintenance checks?

It’s best to start inspecting and maintaining your home before the intense heat sets in. Ideally, you should begin toward the end of spring, around May and June. Of course, if you’re feeling particularly motivated, you can start even earlier.

While earlier is generally better, don’t panic if it’s already July and you haven’t performed any maintenance checks. It’s always better to start late than not at all. Breakdowns and repairs can be costly, so it’s preferable to catch and address issues before they escalate whenever possible.

Is there a summer maintenance and DIY inspection checklist?

Absolutely! Now that you’re ready to begin your DIY home inspection and maintenance, a checklist like the one below will help you get started. Remember, not all homes are the same, but this list provides a solid foundation. You can even print it out and add your own specific ideas for your home.

Know Before You Buy Summer Home Maintenance Checklist:

  1. Brick & Siding: Look for loose or rotted siding to repair or replace. Power wash brick and siding.
  2. Ceiling Fans: Reverse the direction of your ceiling fans. When spinning counterclockwise, fans blow air straight down, keeping you cooler.
  3. Driveway & Sidewalk: Check for cracks and reseal with concrete if necessary.
  4. Ductwork: Clear out dryer vents and exhaust ducts. Inspect your home’s ductwork.
  5. Fencing: Inspect fencing and reinforce any weak areas. Restain, reseal, or repaint wooden fences.
  6. Gutters & Downspouts: Clean out gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage.
  7. Heating & Cooling: Have your HVAC units cleaned and serviced. Check thermostat batteries and clean vents.
  8. Outdoor Play Equipment: Inspect for any repairs or repainting needed.
  9. Plumbing: Check outdoor faucets and fixtures. Replace filters in damaged faucet heads. Clean and replace faucet traps.
  10. Pool: Perform your yearly cleaning and opening routine. Check hoses, lines, and change filters for the swimming season.
  11. Smoke Alarms: Change batteries and test alarms.
  12. Windows: Wash both inside and outside, checking for leaks. Recaulk any seals that require it. Replace old window screens.

This list is not exhaustive, but it covers some of the most important tasks to prepare your home for summer. Many of these tasks can be done by yourself. However, if you’re uncomfortable with any of them, it’s best to rely on a trusted professional for peace of mind.

Don’t forget to service your HVAC system!

Naturally, your home’s cooling system works the hardest during the summer months. Know Before You Buy Home Inspections advises you to perform basic HVAC maintenance yourself, such as cleaning filters, checking hoses and lines for leaks, ensuring fresh thermostat batteries, and testing the system to ensure it keeps your home cool.

For outdoor units, clear away debris and ensure there are no plants or obstructions nearby. It’s recommended to maintain a few feet of clearance around the unit.

If you encounter an issue that you’re not comfortable handling on your own, don’t hesitate to call a professional. In case of a breakdown in your HVAC system, a home warranty from Select can cover repair costs. Dealing with these issues proactively is much more cost-effective than replacing the entire cooling system.

Summer Home Inspections

Remember, taking care of your home through regular maintenance and inspections is crucial for its longevity and your comfort.  By following this DIY guide and staying on top of necessary repairs, you can ensure that your home is ready to withstand the summer heat and provide a cool and comfortable sanctuary for you and your family. Enjoy the season while staying stress-free about potential home system failures. If you would like your home inspected by the best professional home inspectors in Kentucky, then call Know Before You Buy Home Inspections!