Audrey
With summer around the corner, Americans find themselves worrying about the soaring temperatures. This year will likely be a tough one, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicting a 33% chance that 2024 will be warmer than last year. Additionally, it states that 2024 has a 99% probability of being among the five warmest years on record. El Nino might persist until April or May and even beyond.
You may feel more stressed if you live in one of the hottest states such as Florida, Louisiana, Texas, or South Carolina. While you cannot do much about the local climate, some measures can surely help you create a cool haven at home. You can think beyond expensive home improvements, and consider some low-cost maintenance and repair tasks to make your home summer-ready.
In this article, we will share a checklist of maintenance essentials homeowners must prioritize before the summer heat hits hard.
Get a Thorough Air Conditioning System Inspection
A comprehensive check for your home air conditioning system should be on top of your pre-summer maintenance checklist. That’s because it works harder to keep your living space cool and comfortable when temperatures soar outside. Overlooking your HVAC system during summer can affect its performance and efficiency when the heat peaks.
Let us consider a home in Greenville, SC, as an example. The hot season here lasts for 3.7 months, with an average daily high reaching above 82°F. July is the hottest month, with the average high touching 89°F. AC technicians are likely to get busier during the peak season when repair complaints may come in bigger numbers.
Finding a reliable Greenville AC repair service can be a real struggle if your system breaks down amid a heat wave. The best way to avert a big problem is by ensuring timely checks and maintenance. Before summer sets in, call experts for a thorough inspection. Follow repair and maintenance recommendations to keep your AC working in top shape.
According to Air Today Heating & Cooling, a preventive approach can be a savior for homeowners. Look for a reputable provider with years of experience and positive reviews to ensure the efficiency and longevity of your HVAC system.
Ensure Roofing Integrity
Forbes notes that high outdoor temperatures can accelerate the rate of wear on building materials such as roofs and facades. Moreover, indoor temperatures may increase if your home’s roof is already damaged. A pre-summer roofing inspection can help you identify signs of damage such as cracks, leaks, or missing or damaged shingles.
Promptly addressing these issues can minimize water damage and extend the lifespan of your roof. Hire a professional roofer to inspect your roof and perform necessary repairs or maintenance tasks. Also, clear debris from gutters and downspouts to limit water buildup and clogging. Avoid clogging as it can damage your home’s foundation in the long run.
Prepare Your Outdoor Space
The outdoor get-together trend became bigger after the pandemic, with 68% of Americans hosting at least one event in 2022. Backyard barbecues are perhaps the most favorite way to entertain your friends and family members in summer. Consider preparing your outdoor space for these events as a part of your home maintenance priorities.
Start by cleaning your deck or patio and looking for signs of wear or damage. Replace loose or damaged boards and apply a fresh coat of sealant to protect the wood from moisture and sun damage. Also, give your outdoor furniture a makeover with a fresh coat of paint or polish. Remember to clean your grill before firing it up for summer barbecue parties.
Implement Pest Control Measures
Did you know that half the American homeowners encounter structural damage due to pests, but they still avoid spending on pest control? Summer is the time when rodents and bugs are more active and dangerous. A pest control job before the heat hits is the best way to protect your home and family from these hidden intruders.
Proactive measures like sealing cracks and crevices around doors, windows, and foundation walls give you a robust line of defense against pests. Trimming back vegetation and removing water sources should also be on your maintenance list. Hire a professional pest control service to detect and treat infestation sooner rather than later.
In conclusion, preparing your home for the summer season can help maintain comfort, efficiency, and safety during the hot months. You can follow this essential checklist to prevent seasonal woes and enjoy the warmer months ahead. Do not skimp on professional inspection, maintenance, and repair services if you want to stay stress-free.
