Summer Home Maintenance Checklist
Summer is the season for exterior work that needs dry weather — and for catching the pests, humidity, and cooling problems that only appear when it is hot.
Summer maintenance splits into two categories: keeping the house comfortable and efficient while it is hot, and completing the exterior projects that require dry, warm weather.
Cooling and efficiency
- Change filters monthly during heavy use — clogged filters are the leading cause of reduced cooling
- Keep the outdoor condenser clear of grass clippings and debris
- Check the condensate drain monthly; a clogged line backs water into the air handler
- Confirm supply registers are open and unblocked by furniture
- Seal and insulate accessible ductwork in attics and crawl spaces
- Add or check attic insulation and confirm soffit and ridge vents are unobstructed
- Use ceiling fans in occupied rooms only — they cool people, not rooms
Moisture and pests
- Keep indoor humidity between about 30 and 50 percent; run a dehumidifier in damp basements
- Inspect crawl spaces for standing water and confirm the vapor barrier is intact
- Seal exterior gaps larger than a quarter inch around pipes, wiring, and siding penetrations
- Trim vegetation back from siding — plants touching the house are a pest bridge
- Check for mud tubes on foundation walls, a sign of subterranean termites
- Empty anything holding standing water: saucers, gutters, toys, birdbaths
- Repair torn window screens
Exterior projects
- Wash siding and remove mildew, particularly on north-facing walls
- Inspect and reseal decks; a deck that no longer beads water is due
- Check deck ledger board attachment and flashing — the most common cause of deck failure
- Touch up or repaint exterior trim before failures reach the wood
- Reseal driveway cracks
- Inspect fences and gates
Irrigation and landscape
- Water deeply and infrequently — early morning is the most efficient window
- Check irrigation heads for spray onto siding, walkways, or the foundation
- Mulch to two or three inches, kept back from trunks and siding
- Mow high; taller grass shades roots and needs less water
Storm readiness
- Photograph or video every room and store the file off-site for insurance purposes
- Confirm your homeowners policy limits still match rebuilding costs
- Test the generator, if you have one, under load
- Know how to shut off water, gas, and main electrical
- Keep the tree canopy trimmed away from the roof and service lines
Frequently asked questions
What temperature should I set my thermostat in summer?
The U.S. Department of Energy suggests around 78°F when home for a balance of comfort and cost, with a higher setting when away. Every degree of setback saves energy.
Why is my AC running constantly but not cooling?
Common causes are a clogged filter, dirty condenser coils, low refrigerant from a leak, or a system undersized for current conditions. Start with the filter and coils, then call a technician.
How often should a deck be resealed?
Every two to three years for most finishes. Test by sprinkling water: if it soaks in rather than beading, it is time.
Editorial note. This article is general guidance, not a substitute for a professional inspection. If you suspect a gas leak, electrical fault, structural damage, or any condition that may be unsafe, leave the area if necessary and contact a licensed professional or your utility immediately.
