How to Prepare your Home for this year’s Summer

Get your home ready for hot summer temperatures with these easy steps.

Summer is around the corner, and it’s shaping up to be a scorcher. According to the many summer 2023 forecast, most regions in the United States can expect warmer-than-average temperatures. Thunderstorms are also on tap for the Southeast and south Central regions of the country, and heavy rainfall is expected in the Central states.

Tune up your HVAC system

An inefficient HVAC system can drive up your summer cooling costs. It’s recommended to hire a professional HVAC technician to service your system before summer begins to ensure it will run smoothly during the hot-weather months.

Change HVAC air filters

A clean HVAC filter can reduce allergens in your home and help your HVAC system run easier. For best results, try changing your HVAC filter at least once every three months.

Rotate ceiling fans counterclockwise

When used properly, a ceiling fan can help keep a room cool. In the summer, you should set your ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise. This will potentially help circulate cool air and push it down into your room, creating a cooling effect throughout.

Program your lawn sprinkler system

Your lawn may need some extra hydration to sustain long, hot summer days. You want to make sure your sprinklers are functioning with proper rotation and power and you’re not over-watering your lawn. For best results try running your sprinklers in the evening or early morning to avoid the hottest part of the day. 

Deep clean your outdoor grill

Cookouts are synonymous with summer, so make sure your grill is ready for barbecuing. If you have a gas grill, first scrub the grates with a grill brush and then soak them in a mixture of 2 cups of vinegar and 1 cup of baking soda. Dust off any cobwebs from your grill, which can cause a flare-up if they ignite, and clean the outside of the lid and bowl with soap and water. 

Clear out gutters

While this normally is to prepare for the winter season, depending on how the weather is before summer this will help you save time so you aren’t rushing it get it done before the first rainfall. Heavy rainfall can spell disaster if your gutters are clogged. Clearing out dirt and debris can help prevent water backups. It may sound like a chore but it’s a chore best done during safer and warmer weather.

Keep indoor humidity in check

Generally, your home’s indoor humidity level should stay around 40% to 50% in the summer months. Humidity levels of 60% or higher can lead to mold and dust mites. If necessary, purchase a dehumidifier to draw excess moisture from the air.