California may be home to cool ocean breezes, but temperatures are climbing, and they aren’t stopping. It is important for homeowners to prepare their homes for higher temperatures. Whether it’s to keep energy bills low inside or to spruce up the exterior, be sure to prepare your California home for summer before pulling out the sunscreen and hats for a beach day.
HVAC Filters
Visually inspect the home’s air filter every month, whether it be winter or summer. Due to less seasonal pollen, many experts agree air filters can be replaced every three months in the winter if it does not appear dusty, clogged or damaged. For basic 1- to 3-inch air filters, manufacturers suggest replacing them every 30 to 60 days, according to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. If you suffer from light to moderate allergies, replace it even more regularly or consider a better air filter with a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating of 11 to 13 – the higher the rating the better filtration. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, the filter will catch microparticles including pollen, pet allergens and mold, without impeding airflow.
Climate Control
Along with checking HVAC filters, climate control is important to keep the cost of energy bills low. Most experts agree that setting the thermostat to 78 degrees while at home, and 5 to 10 degrees higher when away will keep the house cool, and costs low. Ceiling fans are also useful in keeping a house comfortably cool but should be turned off when not in use. Natural sunlight is always welcomed, but when away, close blinds and other window coverings to act as sunblock, but for the house.
Insulation + Sealants
A home’s insulation is important for maintaining its moderate temperature by holding heat in the winter and staying cool in the summer. Should any areas be lacking, make sure to inspect the rest of the home and supplement accordingly.
Additionally, be sure to check windows, doors, drains and framing for any gaps. Replace old caulking to avoid unwanted moisture, bugs and mold.
Top to Bottom
Call a professional to inspect the roof for cracks, leaks or damage – many companies offer the inspection for free. Covering the house from top to bottom, also inspect the foundation and/or basement for any potential damage. Many new construction homes do not have immediate roofing or foundation issues, but it is always best to check as the repairs might be covered under the new home’s warranty.
Give it a Good Rinse
Wash off visual parts of the home, such as driveways, walkways, porches, doors and windows. Consider power washing these areas to enjoy a fresh curb appeal.
Check Your Surroundings
Check the integrity of outdoor structures, such as fences and yard and outdoor décor, and consider replacing or reinforcing accordingly. Unsteady fences and posts are unappealing and unsafe. Hose down any patio furniture and wash cushions for the final touch to revive the space.
Flower Power
It is finally time for those beautiful summer blossoms. Prepare the yard by trimming and pruning plants, trees and bushes. This will give the house a fresh new curb appeal. Use water sparingly. It is hot and dry, so try watering the grass and other plants when needed but over watering will run up the water bill. The sun can also burn wet leaves and ruin new growth in the yard. Take advantage of rain by setting out indoor plants for a while.
The Grass Isn’t Always Greener…
Refrain from using too much fertilizer. Over-fertilizing may seem like the only way to get that vibrant green yard the neighbor might have, but the grass isn’t always greener. The overuse of fertilizers can lead to patchy and sparse growth.
Getting on top of the home maintenance process, especially in hot summer months, is crucial to maintaining the integrity and beauty of any home. Many of these tips can seem like overwhelming big projects, so start small with manageable tasks and go from there. Soon enough the list will be completed just in time for summer. Grab that sunscreen and head to the beach!
Thinking of buying a home this summer? Explore opportunities from Kiper Homes throughout Hollister, Lathrop and Manteca at www.KiperHomes.com/new-home-communities.