Summer Checklist: Top 10 Home Maintenance Tips for Summer

offer_banner_mobile
All Posts

Go ahead and let out a sigh of relief - you’ve endured winter’s worst, and summer is finally here, once and for all. It’s time to pack away those winter clothes, and get ready to enjoy cookouts, laying out on your deck, and some much-needed vitamin D.

There’s nothing quite like relaxing at home on those perfect summer days and nights. Yet as great as summertime can be, it can also shed light on all of those projects around the house you’ve been putting off for months.

So, how can you get your home ready for the summer - and fast? Explore our top 10 home maintenance tips for summer below to make this year’s summer preparations an absolute breeze.


1. Check your A/C

air conditioner in modern homeIf there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that having access to a functional air conditioner during the summer months is an absolute must. You’ll need to make sure that yours is working to the best of its ability before those ultra-high temperatures kick in. Whether that means cleaning out the filter or performing a thorough A/C functionality test, preparing in advance will help you prevent a cooling catastrophe.


2. Clear out the clutter

organizing a closetBy now, that so-called spring cleaning session you attempted feels like 10 years ago. Summer is the perfect time to do a deep clean (especially in terms of dusting), declutter your living space, or to go through your closet and dump out all those clothes you never wear. Marie Kondo would 100% approve.


3. Prep your deck or patio

patio in summerWhether your idea of relaxing on the deck or patio is to lay out on a lawn chair with a good book or enjoy a beer with friends, there’s something so special about spending time outside. Before summer kicks in, make sure that your deck or patio is in clean, tip-top shape - whether that means washing it, checking for cracks, or simply giving it a good hose-down.


4. Check your insulation

Puls technician outside of homeYou can find insulation issues pretty much anywhere throughout your house, from your front door, to your attic, to cracks in your garage door (especially if yours is attached). With higher cooling costs in the summer, now’s a great time to take a look around, and to seal up any insulation gaps you may encounter.


5. Get your grill ready

getting grill clean for summerTake a second to think about it - when was the last time you thoroughly cleaned your grill? If it’s been quite some time or you simply can’t remember at all, we’d highly recommend giving your grill a good scrub-down before hosting your next backyard barbeque.


6. Schedule a fridge or freezer checkup

Puls technician inspecting a refrigeratorDuring the warmer months, your already hard-working fridge and freezer have to work even harder than usual. Therefore, as temperatures rise, it can become much more prone to a breakdown or malfunction. Schedule a checkup to have a Puls professional come take a look early on, so you’ll be good to go all summer long.


7. Prep your bathroom

modern bathroomAs the new season approaches, it’s a great time to give your bathroom(s) a fresh start. This could be in the form of heavy-duty cleaning, unclogging all your bathroom drains, replacing any leaky faucets or showerheads, sprucing up your bathroom design or feng shui, or otherwise.


8. Automate your A/C with smart devices

Nest thermostatThis summer will surely be a hot one - and, thanks to smart home technology, keeping your home running at an ideal temperature is now easier than ever before. With smart devices like the Nest thermostat, you can automate your home’s temperature on a timer, or even adjust it from your smartphone, so it’s always just right when you get home. Not only is this an immense convenience - it can also save you some major money and help reduce your carbon footprint.


9. Clean out your screens, shutters and window sills

cleaning window sillThere are some things at home that we’d rather not know about. The amount of dirt, grime and dust hiding within our window areas is pretty high up on that list. Tackle these head on with a deep cleaning before the summer starts so you can enjoy that cool evening breeze, while keeping your seasonal allergies at bay.


10. Check your detectors

installing smoke detectorWhile you should be checking these routinely, taking a look at your smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector every few months is crucial to your entire family’s safety. You’ll need to make sure that they’re functioning properly, that they have sufficient batteries, and that they’re fully capable of detecting an issue efficiently and immediately.


Need a hand? Puls is happy to help

Puls technician checking fridgeWhether you need someone to take a look at your fridge or freezer or professionally install a smart thermostat, Puls is here to make it easy.

From appliance repair to smart device setup, we’re proud to offer convenient in-home repairs and installations that work around your busy schedule, with appointment options as soon as same-day. Simply schedule a time that suits you best, and we’ll have one of our expert technicians in your neighborhood at your door in no time.

With Puls, domestic summer bliss is just a few clicks or phone call away. We want you to enjoy a relaxing summer at home, which is why we’re here to make home maintenance as simple as possible. Click here to get started with 5% off your first service with us.

Book a service

Natalie H.
Natalie Hoke is a writer and content manager at Puls. She is passionate about discovering the latest trends in home technology and using humor to tell a great story. In her spare time, she enjoys volunteering, travel, cooking (and eating) vegetarian food, and performing stand-up comedy.
Related Posts

Selling your home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make, and getting the highest possible value is essential. Whether you’re moving for a new job, downsizing, or seeking a change, ensuring your home appeals to buyers and stands out in the market is key. This guide provides actionable tips to enhance your property’s appeal, increase its market value, and secure a successful sale.

  • 6 min read
  • 08/15/24

A garage door is not just a convenience; it’s a critical component of your home’s security system. Often overlooked, an unsecured garage door can be a gateway for burglars, making it crucial to prioritize its security. This guide offers practical tips to bolster your garage door security, ensuring your home remains a safe haven.

  • 5 min read
  • 08/06/24

In today’s eco-conscious world, choosing energy-efficient appliances is a smart decision for both the environment and your wallet. Not only do these appliances reduce your energy bills, but they also minimize your carbon footprint. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the key factors to consider when selecting energy-efficient appliances for your home. Understanding Energy Efficiency Energy efficiency in appliances refers to using less energy to perform the same function as similar appliances. This efficiency is often measured by the energy consumption rate, which indicates how much energy an appliance uses over time. The lower the consumption, the more energy-efficient the appliance. Why Energy Efficiency Matters: Cost Savings: Energy-efficient appliances can significantly lower your utility bills. Environmental Impact: Reducing energy consumption helps decrease greenhouse gas emissions. Long-Term Value: These appliances often come with advanced features and better warranties, making them a worthwhile investment. Key Considerations for Choosing Energy-Efficient Appliances Look for the Energy Star Label One of the simplest ways to identify energy-efficient appliances is by looking for the Energy Star label. This label is a government-backed symbol for energy efficiency, providing simple and credible information to help you make informed decisions. Appliances with the Energy Star label meet strict efficiency criteria set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy. Check the EnergyGuide Label The EnergyGuide label is another important tool. It provides an estimate of the appliance’s annual energy consumption and operating cost. This label helps you compare the efficiency of different models, allowing you to choose the most cost-effective option. The lower the estimated annual energy consumption, the better. Consider the Appliance Size Choosing the right size appliance is crucial for energy efficiency. Larger appliances generally consume more energy, so it’s important to select an appliance that meets your household needs without being excessively large. For example, a family of four may require a larger refrigerator than a single individual, but opting for a model that's too large can result in unnecessary energy use. Evaluate the Appliance’s Features Modern energy-efficient appliances often come with advanced features that can further reduce energy consumption. For instance: Inverter Technology: Found in many energy-efficient refrigerators and air conditioners, this technology adjusts the power output according to the cooling needs, thus saving energy. Sensor Technology: Dishwashers and washing machines with sensors can adjust water and energy use based on the load size and dirtiness, ensuring efficient operation. Automatic Shut-Off: Appliances like ovens and irons with automatic shut-off features can prevent unnecessary energy consumption. Consider the Lifespan and Warranty Energy-efficient appliances are often built to last longer than their less efficient counterparts. When choosing appliances, consider their expected lifespan and warranty. Longer warranties often indicate higher-quality construction, which can save you money on repairs and replacements in the long run. Choosing Energy-Efficient Appliances for Specific Needs Refrigerators and Freezers Refrigerators are among the most energy-consuming appliances in a household. When choosing an energy-efficient refrigerator: Opt for a Top-Freezer Model: These are generally more efficient than side-by-side or bottom-freezer models. Choose the Right Size: A full refrigerator runs more efficiently than a half-empty one, so pick a size that fits your household’s needs. Look for Additional Features: Features like adjustable shelves, humidity-controlled drawers, and LED lighting can enhance efficiency. Washing Machines and Dryers For washing machines: Front-Loading Models: These are typically more energy and water-efficient than top-loading models. High-Efficiency (HE) Detergent: Use this detergent to enhance the efficiency of your machine. Load Size and Settings: Use the right load size and settings to avoid unnecessary energy use. For dryers: Sensor Drying: This feature detects when clothes are dry and shuts off automatically, saving energy. Energy Star Models: Look for the Energy Star label for certified efficiency. Dishwashers Energy-efficient dishwashers not only save energy but also water: Soil Sensors: Dishwashers with soil sensors adjust water use based on the load’s dirtiness. Efficient Water Heaters: Models with internal water heaters can reduce energy use compared to those that rely on your home’s water heater. Ovens and Stoves When it comes to cooking appliances: Induction Cooktops: These are more energy-efficient than traditional gas or electric stoves because they heat pots and pans directly. Convection Ovens: These use fans to circulate hot air, cooking food more evenly and quickly, thus saving energy. Air Conditioners and Heaters For climate control: Programmable Thermostats: These can help reduce energy use by automatically adjusting the temperature based on your schedule. SEER Rating: For air conditioners, a higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) means greater efficiency. The Role of Smart Appliances Smart appliances are becoming increasingly popular for their convenience and energy-saving potential. These appliances can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps, allowing you to monitor and control energy use. For example, you can turn off your oven or adjust your thermostat from anywhere, ensuring energy is not wasted. Energy-Efficient Appliance Maintenance Maintaining your appliances properly is essential for ensuring they operate efficiently. Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your appliances and keep them running at peak performance. Tips for Maintaining Energy Efficiency: Regular Cleaning: Dust and debris can reduce the efficiency of appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners. Clean coils and filters regularly. Professional Inspections: Schedule regular inspections to check for issues that might affect efficiency. Prompt Repairs: Address any malfunctions promptly to prevent further energy waste. For professional repair services, visit Puls Appliance Repair Services and keep your appliances in top condition. Conclusion Choosing energy-efficient appliances is a smart investment for your home and the environment. By considering factors such as Energy Star and EnergyGuide labels, appliance size, features, and lifespan, you can select the best appliances for your needs. Additionally, incorporating smart technology and maintaining your appliances properly can maximize energy savings. For professional assistance with maintaining and repairing your appliances, Puls Appliance Repair Services offers expert solutions to keep your home running efficiently. Make the switch to energy-efficient appliances today and enjoy the benefits of lower energy bills and a greener home.

  • 7 min read
  • 08/01/24