With each new season that approaches, it is a good time to evaluate any routine maintenance that needs to be done to your house. Now that we are in the midst of summertime, you should take some time to evaluate what needs to be done to keep your systems running smoothly.
Your A/C unit works hardest during the summer, so make sure it’s up to the task. Change or clean your air filters, inspect the outdoor A/C unit for debris, and consider scheduling a professional tune-up to ensure it’s running efficiently. An inefficient system can raise your energy bills and leave your home less comfortable on hot days.
Hot air can easily sneak in through worn-out seals and weatherstripping. Walk through your home and check for drafts. Replace weatherstripping and apply caulk where needed to improve insulation. Not only will this keep your home cooler, but it can also reduce your cooling costs.
Ceiling fans should rotate counterclockwise in the summer to push cool air down. Dust off the blades and make sure the fan is set in the correct direction. This small adjustment can make rooms feel cooler and help you rely less on your A/C.
Summertime is the prime time for enjoying your backyard, patio, or deck. Clean your outdoor furniture, power wash decks or walkways, and inspect for any damage that may have occurred during the winter or spring. Check for any signs of pests or areas where water may have collected – standing water can attract mosquitoes.
With summer storms and increased heat, your roof and gutters need to be in good shape. Look for any missing or damaged shingles and clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent water damage. If you’re not comfortable checking the roof yourself, consider hiring a professional.
Hot weather can be tough on grass and plants. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid evaporation. Mulch your flower beds to retain moisture and keep weeds down.
Summer often means grilling, using fans, or having more people in the house – all of which can increase the need for working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Test each unit, replace batteries if needed, and make sure they're placed in key locations.
Summertime brings long days, warm weather, and opportunities to enjoy your home inside and out. A little preparation can go a long way toward keeping everything running smoothly and making your home comfortable all season long.
At Ruoff Mortgage, we understand that buying a home is one of life’s biggest moments – not just as a financial decision, but a personal one. For more than 41 years, we’ve proudly helped families turn their dreams into reality. From our roots in northeast Indiana to now serving homebuyers throughout the Midwest, our focus has stayed the same: delivering exceptional service rooted in care, speed, and community. With an average 15-day clear-to-close time, our team is here to make your journey to homeownership as smooth and stress-free as possible. When you're ready to take the next step, we’re here to walk with you, every step of the way.