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Essential Summer Maintenance Tips for Your New Home

Keeping up with seasonal maintenance is crucial for preserving the beauty, functionality, and longevity of your new home. In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of Summer seasonal maintenance tasks specifically tailored to keep your home in excellent shape. From outdoor maintenance to interior checks, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and ensure your home remains a comfortable and safe haven all year round.

Outdoor Maintenance
  1. Remove Plants and Roots
    Inspect your home’s exterior regularly and remove any plants or roots that touch or penetrate the siding or masonry. This simple step prevents potential damage and maintains the integrity of your home.
  2. Service Garage Door Opener
    Ensure your garage door operates smoothly and safely by scheduling a professional service for your garage door opener and its associated parts. This ensures they are in optimal working condition. Remember to lubricate the springs and track using the appropriate lubricant, following the manufacturer’s guidelines. It’s crucial to leave the adjustment of the spring to professionals to avoid any potential risks. Trust the experts to keep your garage door functioning flawlessly
  3. Check Exterior Finishes, Trim, and Wall Penetration Sealant
    Regularly examine the exterior finishes, trim, and wall penetration sealant for signs of deterioration. Clean, replace, or refinish them as needed to protect against moisture and maintain an attractive appearance.
  4. Ensure Proper Sump Pump Operation
    Ensure the effective operation of your sump pump by verifying that it’s working correctly and efficiently discharging water away from your home’s foundation. Sometimes, dirt and debris can accumulate in the pump, causing it to malfunction. A simple knock can often clear any accumulated debris and restore its functionality. Additionally, attaching a sump extension hose will help ensure that water is properly carried away from your foundation, reducing the risk of water damage and maintaining a dry basement. Take these steps to protect your home and keep your basement safe and dry.
Interior Maintenance
  1. Change Filters
    Regularly maintain your HVAC system to enhance indoor air quality and optimize its efficiency. Start by changing the furnace filter and cleaning the foam filters of the Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV). During summer, it’s a great opportunity to rinse the main HRV core by running water through it and allowing it to drip-dry before reinstalling. Additionally, remember to clean the filter for your over-the-range hood if you have one. These simple actions not only improve the air you breathe but also maximize the performance of your system. Breathe easy and enjoy a well-functioning HVAC system.
  2. Check Basement Pipes
    Inspect basement pipes for condensation or dripping. If necessary, take corrective action such as reducing humidity levels or insulating the pipes to prevent moisture-related issues.
  3. Check Basement Floor Drain
    Ensure that the trap in your basement floor drain contains water. If needed, refill the trap to prevent odors and maintain proper drainage.
  4. Inspect Air Conditioning Unit
    Regularly inspect your air conditioning unit to ensure that the drain pan under the cooling coil is clean and draining properly. This promotes efficient operation and helps prevent water damage.
  5. Monitor Humidity and Condensation
    Keep an eye on your home’s humidity and condensation levels. Avoid excessively high humidity by using a dehumidifier if necessary. Maintaining appropriate humidity levels helps prevent mold growth and other moisture-related problems.
  6. Lubricate Door Hinges and Tighten Screws
    Regularly lubricate door hinges and tighten screws to ensure proper alignment and seal. This helps maintain smooth operation and prevents unnecessary wear and tear.
  7. Inspect and Clean Dryer Duct
    Inspect and clean the dryer duct to remove lint buildup, improving dryer efficiency and reducing the risk of fire hazards.
  8. Check Guardrails and Handrails
    Inspect guardrails and handrails for stability and safety. Ensure they are securely fastened and in good condition.
  9. Deep Clean Carpets
    Keep your carpets fresh and allergen-free with regular deep cleaning. By removing dirt, stains, and allergens, you not only enhance the appearance of your home but also ensure a healthy living environment. Plus, it’s important to note that regular carpet cleaning helps maintain your warranty. Many carpet brands recommend cleaning every 18 months to uphold the warranty terms. So, prioritize carpet cleaning for a clean and warranty-compliant home.
  10. Run Water through Infrequently Used Plumbing Fixtures
    To prevent traps from drying out, run water through plumbing fixtures that are not frequently used, such as spare bathroom tubs, sinks, or toilets.
  11. Test Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors
    Regularly test your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors to ensure they are functioning correctly. Replace batteries as needed for uninterrupted protection.

By incorporating these essential seasonal maintenance tips into your routine, you can safeguard your new home, preserve its value, and ensure a comfortable living environment. Taking proactive steps to maintain both the exterior and interior of your home will contribute to its longevity and enhance your overall enjoyment. Don’t overlook the importance of regular inspections, cleaning, and necessary repairs. With a little effort and attention, you can keep your new home in excellent shape throughout the seasons, providing you with peace of mind and a place you can truly call your own.

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