Getting Your Home Ready for Summer

Summer is almost here! Is your home ready? Below you will find 11 tips to get your home prepared for the summer season.

• Air Conditioner – Check to make sure your air conditioner is working. If it isn’t, it is best to get it fixed now when the temperature is not too hot.
• Air Filters – Replace old filters with new ones and make sure to change them out monthly.
• Drafts or Cracks – Seal any drafty doors or windows and cracks to keep the cool air in and the hot air out. This can save you money on your electric bill.
• Thermostat – It’s a good time to upgrade to a programmable thermostat. During the day when no one is home you can program your air conditioner to 78-80 degrees and then cooler in the evening when you and your family are home. This can also lower your electric bill.
• Hurricane Season – If you live in a hurricane area then you know summer is hurricane season. So make sure your hurricane kit is up to date.
• Pests – Insects and bugs will be attracted to the cool air in your home so seal any cracks and spray the perimeter of your home with insecticide.
• Windows – Install double pain windows or tinted to keep the heat out. Also keep your curtains closed and blinds drawn to keep the sunshine out.
• Watering the Lawn – To get the best bang for your buck water your lawn early in the morning or at night. If you have a sprinkler system make sure it works now so you’re not looking for a repair man during the summer season when they are in high demand.
• Pool – Stock up on pool supplies or schedule a pool maintenance company to come out regularly. Also set up a towel rack with clean dry towels by the back door to help keep wet children from running across your clean house.
• Pets – Make sure you have your pets on a monthly flea treatment. Also treat your lawn for fleas and other pests. If your pets spend time outside, have a big bowl of water for them that is not in direct sunlight and make sure your pet has a nice shady spot to relax.
• Summer Allergies – If you have allergies then you must dust frequently with a wet towel, regularly wash bedding and curtains, use air conditioning instead of opening windows, keep all tiled areas clean and free of mold and use a Hepa filter.