Third Quarter Home Maintenance Tips

Home Improvement

By Beth Geiser

July Home Maintenance Tips: Summer Sizzle

  1. Check and Clean Ceiling Fans
    • Make sure your fans are set to spin counterclockwise for a cooling effect. Dust off the blades and tighten any loose screws to reduce wobbling. A clean, balanced fan can lower your cooling costs and keep the air circulating.
  2. Protect Your Home from Summer Storms
    • Secure outdoor furniture, check for loose shingles, and trim tree branches that could become projectiles during a storm. It’s also a great time to review your home insurance policy for storm coverage.
  3. Refresh Caulk in Kitchens and Bathrooms
    • Prevent water damage by checking the caulking around sinks, tubs, and showers. If it’s cracked or peeling, scrape it out and apply fresh caulk for a watertight seal.

August Home Maintenance Tips: Beat the Heat

  1. Clean Your Refrigerator Coils
    • Pull your fridge away from the wall and give those dusty coils a good vacuuming. Clean coils help your fridge run more efficiently, saving you money on your energy bill.
  2. Seal Gaps Around Windows and Doors
    • Keeping your home cool is easier when you eliminate drafts. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal any gaps and keep the hot air out. Your A/C will thank you!
  3. Drain and Refill Your Water Heater
    • Sediment buildup can reduce the efficiency of your water heater. Drain a few gallons from the tank to flush out the sediment, or schedule a professional to give it a full service.

September Home Maintenance Tips: Fall into Action

  1. Check Outdoor Lighting
    • Shorter days mean more reliance on outdoor lighting. Replace any burnt-out bulbs, upgrade to energy-efficient LEDs, and consider adding motion sensors for safety.
  2. Seal Your Driveway
    • Fall is the perfect time to apply a sealant to your driveway. It helps protect against cracks from the freeze-thaw cycle and keeps it looking fresh.
  3. Service Your Lawn for the Fall
    • Aerate your lawn to loosen compacted soil and overseed to fill in any bare patches. A little attention now means a lush lawn next spring.