If you live in a warm climate, you depend on a functional HVAC system in the summertime. Before the weather gets too hot, schedule a professional inspection so you don’t end up with a breakdown at the peak of summer heat.

Professional Tune-Up

An HVAC technician will typically do the following to keep your system in good shape:

• Clean or replace air filters
• Check refrigerant levels
• Inspect and clean coils
• Lubricate moving parts
• Test the thermostat to confirm temperature accuracy

DIY Maintenance

In addition to getting professional servicing, do regular maintenance tasks to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. Start by changing air filters, preferably monthly (depending on your home size, pets, and lifestyle), to avoid clogs. Clear debris and trim vegetation around the outdoor unit to maintain air intake. 

Coming out of winter, make sure your windows are working correctly before you open them up for the season and that your screens are in good shape.

Window Maintenance

Clean window tracks and lubricate them with silicone spray for smooth operation. Then, inspect the weatherstripping and replace it if the winter weather wore it down. Check for drafts and apply caulk to seal any air leaks.

Screen Repair

Window screens are notorious for tears, so keep an eye on them. In spring, remove screens and clean them using mild soap and water to remove dust and debris. Inspect for holes or tears that could allow insects to enter. Feel free to patch small holes yourself, but if your screens are too far gone, replace them altogether.

Painting your home may seem like a decorative choice, but exterior paint also protects your home from the elements. If you’re considering a new paint job or if your existing paint is looking dull, spring is an ideal time to touch up or repaint.

Inspection

First, inspect your current paint job. Look for signs of peeling, bubbling, or cracking paint that could expose the material underneath. Check for areas of wood rot or decay that might compromise structural integrity. Look for gaps in caulking around windows and doors.

Once you’ve inspected your home, fix any problems you find by replacing sections of rotten wood, recaulking around windows and doors, and stripping or repainting any peeling paint.

Painting Tips

When it’s time to paint, make sure you scrape and sand down any loose paint to create a smooth surface. Then, use a primer on bare wood or metal surfaces to make sure the paint adheres. For best results, choose high-quality exterior paint that works with your local climate.

Springtime is the time for growth, so if you have a garden or lawn, it’s the perfect season to do some preparatory chores. Set time aside early in spring, and it will pay off in the months to come.

Lawn Care

Remove debris and rake out dead grass to allow for new growth. Then, aerate your lawn if your soil is compacted to help roots access water and nutrients.

Apply a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent weeds and fertilize with a spring-specific blend to provide nutrients for your lawn. Your grass will thank you.

Garden Prep

If you have a garden, you know how much work it is to keep it vibrant and healthy all season long. To set yourself up for a good season, start by clearing out dead plants and weeds that could harbor diseases or pests. Then, add a layer of compost to your garden beds to enrich the soil.

Prune shrubs and trees before new growth begins to shape and encourage healthy development. If you have an edible garden, plan for and start planting spring fruits and vegetables.

The freeze-thaw cycles of winter can do a number on your home’s foundation. To catch potential issues, inspect your foundation every spring.

Inspection Points

To inspect your foundation:

• Look for cracks in foundation walls that could signal settling issues.
• Check for signs of water damage or moisture that may point to drainage problems.
• Ensure the ground slopes away from the foundation to divert water.
• Inspect the basement or crawl space for signs of pests, moisture, or mold.

Repairs

If you find any concerns with your foundation, fix them as soon as possible. To start, fill small foundation cracks with epoxy injections to prevent them from getting bigger. If you have drainage issues, redirect or extend downspouts to push water further away from your home. 

Consider professional waterproofing solutions if you have persistent moisture problems year after year. If any issues seem beyond your DIY skills, don’t hesitate to call a professional and have them repair your foundation.

Clean and restore your deck, patio, and other outdoor living areas in spring so they don’t look dirty or weathered when you go to use them.

Deck Maintenance

If you have a wooden deck, regular maintenance is more than just a suggestion—it’s a necessity. To keep your deck looking sharp, inspect for loose boards, protruding nails, and signs of wood rot. If you have rotten wood, replace those boards. Hammer in any protruding nails.

Then, clean your deck thoroughly using a pressure washer or deck cleaner to remove dirt and mold. Apply a water-repellent sealant to protect against moisture penetration.

Patio Care

Patios tend to be less of a hassle to maintain than decks but keep up with them to make sure they look well-kept for barbecues and bonfires. Start by checking for cracks or pavers that may have shifted during freezing and thawing cycles. Then, clean with a product suitable for the material, whether it’s stone, brick, or concrete.

Before the first mow of the season, make sure your lawn mower is up to the task. Taking the time to tune it up will improve its performance and prolong its life.

Lawn Mower Maintenance

For routine lawn mower maintenance:

• Change the oil and spark plug(s).
• Sharpen or replace the blades.
• Clean or replace the air filter.
• Fill with fuel and check the fuel lines for leaks.

Other Equipment

Most homeowners use more than just a lawn mower for landscaping. Inspect your string trimmer, leaf blower, and other lawn care tools before using them.

Also, sharpen the blades on your hedge trimmers and pruning tools. If you have corded power tools, check and replace any frayed cords to prevent electrical hazards.

Safety devices are only effective if they work correctly, so while you’re doing your spring cleaning, test your smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors is very simple. Just press the button on the front to check if the batteries are still good. If they’re not, replace them. Also, if your detectors are over 10 years old, replace them promptly before they malfunction.

Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are another easy item to check. Start by checking that your fire extinguisher hasn’t expired. If it has, replace it. For more on how to pick a new fire extinguisher, read the United States Fire Administration’s guide to choosing and using fire extinguishers.

Check the pressure gauge to make sure it still has pressure and is ready for use. Then make sure the pin and tamper seal are intact. If everything looks good, you’re good to go.