Home Maintenance Tips
Here is a list of tasks for inside and outside the home.
Outdoor Home Maintenance-
1. Power Wash Your Driveway and Sidewalks
A great place to start with summer home maintenance is to thoroughly inspect and clean your sidewalks, deck, patio, and driveway. The key to cleaning these areas is to use a pressure washer. Before you start power washing, checking these areas for cracks and weeds is a good idea. Once you have given everything a full inspection, wash away all the dirt, mold, and grime.
If you don't own one, you can check with your local home improvement store about renting a pressure washer.
2. Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts
It is best to do a soft washing for screens, outdoor wood furniture, and cedar, wood, or vinyl siding. You can use your same pressure washer; replace the tip with a nozzle that widens the water spray so it's modified to a lower PSI (pressure per square inch.
3. Wash Windows and Replace Window Screens
Wash your exterior windows and window screens, too. Remove your window screens and gently scrub them with hot, soapy water. If your screens are too filthy to be cleaned, you may want to replace them.
While examining your screens, you should also examine your windows and doors to ensure they seal tightly and function properly to conserve the cool air from your air conditioning.
4. Prevent Bug Breeding Grounds
Since warmer weather usually means more time spent outside, you'll want to maintain a yard that isn't swarming with insects. A quick spritz of outdoor bug spray around the perimeter of your house and yard will keep you relaxed in your yard instead of running inside for cover. You can also caulk your windows and doors to help stop bugs and ants from infiltrating your home.
5. Beautify Your Yard
Make your yard look fresh, from the grass to the trees. Start by removing all dead parts from trees or plants and doing some weeding. Laying mulch in your flower beds will help keep weeds away and let your plants retain moisture. Just in time for summer cookouts!
Indoor Home Maintenance
6. Examine Your (Indoor) Hoses
First on the summer home maintenance checklist for indoor spaces is to inspect the hoses of your washer, dehumidifier, dishwasher, icemaker, toilets, and refrigerator for any signs of wear and tear, leaks, or cracks. It would be best if you replaced these hoses once every 3-5 years, but it is essential to regularly check for any signs of leaking.
7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Replace old batteries and check to ensure things are in working order with all smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and home timers.
8. Clean the Garbage Disposal and Dishwasher
This summer home maintenance tip isn't necessarily a warm weather chore, but it is important to clean out your garbage disposal and dishwasher occasionally. You can clean out your garbage disposal by flushing it with hot water and some dish soap. To clean your dishwasher, add 2 cups of vinegar to the bottom of the machine and run the machine on a low wash. If your dishes are still dirty, it may be time to replace the appliance.
9. Reverse Ceiling Fans
It's a good idea to reverse the direction of your ceiling fan during the summer so that it spins counterclockwise. This change pushes the air straight down, creating a nice breeze. To do so:
- Shut off the fan and wait for the blades to come to a complete stop.
- Once everything is still, use a ladder or step stool to locate the direction switch – this will probably be on the side of the fan above the blades.
- Flip the switch in the opposite direction and turn the fan back on.
- While you're up there, dust your fan blades as well.
10. Perform Washing Machine Maintenance
Your washing machine is one of those appliances that need some light maintenance now and then. When your washer is not in use, inspect the seal between the door opening and the drum for areas of soil buildup or stains. Clean it with a mixture of ¾ cup of chlorine bleach and a gallon of warm water if you find any. Rub the area with the bleach and water solution and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Wipe dry with a clean cloth, and let it air dry. Cleaning the washing machine will remove any odors and keep your clothes from getting stained by dirt deposits inside the seal.
Take note of the age of your washer and dryer, and be prepared for when they'll need replacement.
11. Wipe Down and Clean Baseboards
Baseboards are often a neglected chore. It can be tough to muster up the energy to get on your hands and knees and clean the trim, but it is something you want to do at least once a year during a deep clean of your home to keep dust and dirt from building up. A damp cloth and a little patience are all you need to clean up the trim around your home.
Remember, it's always a good idea to consult specific maintenance guidelines for your home and its equipment. Stay safe, and enjoy the summer! The Aaronson Group is always here to help you with your real estate-related plans. Give us a call --- 949-388-5194.
