Summer Home Maintenance for Newbs

Dear homeowners of the North, we have some good news. Of all the seasons, summer is the cheapest and least labour intensive in terms of home maintenance - the to-do list is short, the tasks are fairly chill, and costs are low. Kick back and take care of these 6 simple items by early summer, and life at home will be a breeze.

1. Service HVAC System & Change Air Conditioner Filters

If you haven’t serviced your AC system yet, we recommend a yearly HVAC service before the temperatures soar and things get muggy. Right now, there is a year’s worth of dirt and debris clogging up your air conditioner. The benefits of an annual service include increased efficiency, coolness and comfort; reduced electricity costs; a longer lasting air conditioner; and a professional checking for any problems or repairs that need attending to. This preventative maintenance will save you from breakdowns during the times you’ll need AC the most. Be sure to change your filters every 2 to 3 months, and prune shrubs and plants around your AC unit so it gets plenty of air circulation.

2. Check & Clean Dryer Exhaust Vent

The accumulation of lint in the clothes dryer exhaust pipe is a leading cause of household fires, and cleaning it regularly prevents fires from happening. Remove the drying hose and outside vent pipe cover, and use a brush or vacuum to clean the interior. Check out these detailed instructions to learn more. A clear summer day is the perfect time to do this task.

3. Maintain Windows for Optimal Cooling

To keep the heat out and the cool in, routinely check window seals and weather stripping. If you notice any gaps, use caulk or replace weather stripping. Hire a handyman if DIY isn't your thing.

4. Clean the Barbecue

Check out our post How To Love Your BBQ from earlier this season to learn about the best products and practices for regular cleanings, as well as the benefits of a professional service.

5. Test Outdoor Faucet & Hose

Check for freeze damage, cracks and leaks, and undertake necessary replacements. Your outdoor faucet is also vulnerable to blockages from sediment and small particles. You can dismantle the spigot, clean the inside with vinegar, and check the washer (the black rubber ring inside the faucet) to see if it needs replacing.

6. Dust Ceiling Fan Blades

When you first turn on your ceiling fans, don't do that thing where you shower your living room with 6 months of dust build up. You can use an old pillow case to capture the piled up dust (see image below). Or, attach a clothes dryer sheet to a paint roller with some elastic bands and roll away the dust.

Images courtesy of JK Aircon Specialist, Structure Tech, Unsplash, How To Fix It Workshop & Good Housekeeping.