June is National Homeownership Month – the perfect time to mull the joys and responsibilities that come with owning a home. With warmer weather settling in, now is also an ideal moment to get ahead of summer’s challenges.
Nicole Slaughter Graham at HouseLogic.com offers expert-backed advice to help homeowners keep things running smoothly indoors during the hot summer months. From boosting energy efficiency to refreshing your living space, these tips are a great reminder that a little planning now can make a big difference all season long.
Indoor summer checklist
When temperatures rise, so does your reliance on cooling systems – and your utility bill if your home isn’t sealed tight. Now’s the time to audit and prep your home’s interior for maximum efficiency and comfort.
Tip 1: Book an AC tuneup
“Inside, one of the biggest summer issues homeowners experience is AC system failure,” says Jim Marino, CEO at Pinnacle Home Improvements in Alpharetta, Georgia. “Maintaining the AC unit provides peace of mind that it won’t break down when you need it most – and it helps keep your energy bills from skyrocketing.”
Tip 2: Change ceiling fan setting
This is an easy win. Make sure ceiling fans rotate counterclockwise during the summer, says Ron Shimek, president of Mr. Handyman, a Neighborly company based in Waco, Texas. This setting circulates cool air more effectively and keeps your space more comfortable without overworking your AC. There might be exceptions to the direction, so use this test to make sure your ceiling fan is set correctly.
Tip 3: Seal and insulate
Hot air finds its way in through the smallest cracks. “Seal windows and doors to keep cool air in and hot air out, improving energy efficiency,” Shimek says. Upgrading weatherstripping is a quick, budget-friendly way to save energy and deter pests.
Tip 4: Check and clean windows and screens
Summer is when you throw open the windows – so make sure they’re ready. Clean off grime and replace any torn screens to keep insects out. Also, consider installing blackout curtains or thermal window coverings to block the sun and reduce cooling costs.
Tip 5: Inspect attics and basements
Your attic and basement can silently sabotage comfort and air quality. “Check the basement and attic for proper humidity levels and check for mold, which can quickly cause issues,” Marino says. Use a dehumidifier in moisture-prone areas and look for signs of poor insulation.
Tip 6: Clean fans, vents and filters
Homeowners often overlook components from exhaust fans to air filters. “Check and clean your vents, ducts and exhaust fans,” suggests Chris Counahan, chief sales officer at Leaf Home, headquartered in Hudson, Ohio. Also, change air filters to maintain proper air flow and indoor air quality.
Tip 7: Freshen up floors, tile and grout
The time to get floors in shape is before summer guests arrive. Vacuum and shampoo carpets, clean hardwood floors and scrub grout in bathrooms and kitchens to nix any lingering winter grime.
Tip 8: Refresh your paint job
“I tend to recommend house painting – interior and exterior – as a great spring home maintenance project to prepare for summer,” says Carr Lanphier, CEO of Improve, a house-painting service provider in Chicago. “The weather tends to be perfect for leaving windows open to dry and air out freshly painted rooms indoors.”
A fresh coat of paint not only enhances your space but also sets the tone for the entire season – especially if you’re welcoming visitors. So, make sure you choose the right finish.
Tip 9: Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Barbecue season means more cooking – both inside and out. Take a few minutes to test smoke detectors and change batteries if needed, Marino suggests. Then you’ll have one less thing to worry about.
Tip 10: Banish funky odors
Warmer weather and more humidity can cause unwanted odors to grow from a whiff to a smelly wallop. Humidity traps odor-causing molecules, causing odors to travel farther and last longer, experts say. Clean up sources of trouble like pet items, bedding and appliances, including the fridge and garbage disposal.
Want to get the outside of your home ready, too? Catch the second part of our summer checklist later this month, when we cover everything from landscaping to grilling prep to keep your outdoor spaces safe and inviting. #ThatsWhoWeR
Founded in 1912, Greater Chattanooga Realtors is the voice for real estate in Greater Chattanooga. A regional organization with more than 2,700 members, Greater Chattanooga Realtors serves Hamilton and Sequatchie counties in southeast Tennessee and Catoosa, Dade and Walker counties in northwest Georgia.