Summer is right around the corner and you know what that means? That’s right: another home maintenance check up! While people don’t generally get excited about home maintenance, it’s required to keep your home running smoothly. So here’s our homeowner’s summer checklist to make it easier for you!
“Summer has always been my favorite season. I feel happier.” - Zooey Deschanel
Check Detectors + ACs
If you haven’t done this during spring cleaning, then it’s time to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. That means replacing batteries and testing them to make sure everything is working regularly. More than that, also check the AC units in your home, replace filters, and clean the ducts. If you have fans, you’ll also want to get them cleaned up with a damp rag.
Refrigerator and Stove
The kitchen is usually the most used space in a house, so each season that goes by, that’s the room deserving the most complete checklists. But for now, we’ll assume that you did a thorough job during the earlier mentioned spring cleaning, and focus on two kitchen appliances:
- The fridge: aside from throwing out old food and condiments, defrosting and cleaning it inside, you should also consider cleaning the drip pan and dusting the condenser coil.
- The stove: use a citrus-based cleaner and hot water to make your stove hood and filter brand-new and scent free again.
Clean Showerhead and Drains
No matter how many times you do a cleaning process in your bathroom, it’s never too much! That’s an area that gets dirty pretty quickly, and when we clean up, we don’t always go for the deep cleaning. Most of the time we simply clean the main parts: toilet, shower doors, sink, and floors.
This time, add these to your list:
- Showerhead
- Drains
There are two ways you can clean the showerhead:
- Take it off and soak in vinegar overnight
- Use a plastic bag filled with vinegar and baking soda and attach it onto the showerhead with a rubber band overnight
Or, of course, there’s also the option to replace your shower completely, but that’s only valid if you have an really old shower. As for the drains, you can pull out the mechanism, use a drain stick to clean it, then pour some bleach and rinse. Don’t forget to use rubber gloves for this part, as bleach can cause skin irritation.
Clean Outdoor Cooker
Since we’re talking about summer, of course we’d take the checklist outside too! Most people like to throw (and attend) barbecues and backyard gatherings during this season, so it’s important to give your grill a check up.
For gas grills you can turn the heat up and wait about 30 minutes (lid closed), then allow it to cool down and use a grill brush to clean it. The exterior can be wiped down with a damp sponge and just a bit of a soft cleanser.
For charcoal grills, on the other hand, you’ll need to empty it completely and clean all parts of it with hot water, a sponge, and liquid dishwashing soap. Let it dry before assembling and using it again!
Wash Your Windows + Window Screens
Did you know you should wash your windows once a year? And summer is the perfect time to get that task done! Both your windows and window screens can be washed with hot water and soap. Simply fill a bucket and scrub the surfaces with a non-scratch sponge.
Tip: if your window screens don’t get clean with the soapy hot water, you may want to consider replacing them.
Though you can also find a professional window cleaner and make your life easier!
Porch and Deck Cleaning
Once your grills and windows are all set, it’s time to move on to the porch and deck cleaning! First, you’ll want to remove dust from your furniture (if you have any outdoor furniture). That way all the dirt will go on the floor before you actually clean it. The porch is easier to clean, so I’d recommend you get started there:
- Sweep and mop it thoroughly (though if it’s too dirty, it might need to be scrubbed with a brush too)
- For a special touch, polish it with a material-compatible polish
Now, your deck will need more attention. You’ll need to examine it, being sure to look for any signs of rotting wood and loose nails. If there’s no rotting, you can simply hammer the loose nails! But there’s more: sprinkle some water on your deck board to do a sealing test. If the water soaks, it’s time to get that deck resealed! If not, then you’re all set.
Exterior Painting
Once you have completed the outdoor cleaning checklist, give some attention to your home’s exterior walls! When was the last time you had the painting renewed? Maybe it’s time for a new coat of paint. Either touch-up the color you already have, or give your home a new look with one of the 2018 color trends!
Yard and Garden Check Up
Lastly, beautify your home with a garden check up! Not only the front garden for curb appeal, but also the backyard to wow your guests during the summer gatherings. You can start by removing dead plants and trees, then adding mulch to keep weeds away and help your remaining plants to retain moisture from the summer heat.
More than that:
Remember to check your irrigation systems by looking for cracks or worn-out sections. They’ll be really important to keep your plants and grass hydrated during summer heat - which also reminds another important tip: plan a watering schedule. If you water deeply a couple of times a week instead of lightly everyday, it’ll help your plants and trees to grow deeper, stronger roots.
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