Arizona homeowners should take several steps to maintain their homes during the summer months, especially considering the intense heat and potential for monsoon storms. Here are essential home maintenance tips for Arizona summers:
- Air Conditioning Maintenance: There’s nothing worse than an air conditioner that fails during a 100+ degree summer day. Ensure your air conditioning system is in good working condition by cleaning or replacing filters, checking for leaks or inefficiencies, and scheduling a professional tune-up to optimize performance.
- Seal Windows and Doors: Check for drafts around windows and doors and seal any gaps or cracks to prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from entering. This will help keep your cooling bill down too.
- Roof Inspection: Inspect your roof for any damage or wear and tear, especially after monsoon storms. Repair any loose shingles or leaks promptly to prevent water damage.
- Gutter Cleaning: Clean gutters and downspouts to remove debris and ensure proper drainage, especially before monsoon season to prevent water buildup and potential flooding.
- Pest Control: Keep an eye out for pests such as ants, termites, and rodents, which are more active during the summer. Take preventive measures like monthly pest control services, where their focus is to eliminate pest’s food sources before they infest your home!
- Outdoor Maintenance: Trim trees and bushes away from your home to prevent damage from branches during storms. Does your water bill seem high? Check irrigation systems for leaks or malfunctions and adjust watering schedules as needed.
- Pool Maintenance: Maintain proper chemical balance, clean filters regularly, and inspect pool equipment for any issues. A spike in temperatures or a monsoon with lots of debris can suddenly turn a clean pool yellow with algae, so weekly pool maintenance can help resolve these issues quickly.
- Fire Safety: Clear dry brush and vegetation from around your property to reduce fire hazards, especially in areas prone to wildfires. Fire levels are often ‘extreme’ during summer months and wildfires spread quickly.
- Energy Efficiency: Take steps to improve energy efficiency, such as installing window treatments to block out heat, using ceiling fans to circulate air, and setting thermostats at optimal temperatures. Your energy company may provide a discounted rate during these months for running your thermostat or appliances only during non-peak hours.
- Emergency Preparedness: Have a plan in place for emergencies, including power outages or extreme weather events like a flood from a monsoon. Keep essential supplies, such as flashlights, batteries, and first aid kits, easily accessible.
By following these maintenance tips, Arizona homeowners can keep their homes comfortable, safe, and well-maintained throughout the summer months.
