Do these things indoors and out to keep your home cool in summer heat
North Carolina summers are legendary – hot, humid, and sunny. But before you break out the swimsuits and fire up the grill, a little home prepping can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable season.
Home prepping is not just about spring cleaning. It's about ensuring your house is ready to keep you cool and comfortable throughout the summer.
Several essential tasks must be tackled, from HVAC maintenance to yard work. Grab your iced tea and get ready to transform your space into a summer oasis!
HVAC maintenance
Your heating, ventilation and air conditioning system is vital in keeping your indoor environment comfortable. Start by changing your air filters to ensure proper airflow and efficiency.
Next, it's essential to check for any leaks or blockages in your duct work that could reduce your HVAC system's effectiveness. Schedule a professional tune-up to clean the coils, check refrigerant levels, and ensure all components work efficiently.
Don't forget about your outdoor unit as well. Clear away any debris or vegetation obstructing airflow around the unit. Keeping your HVAC system's indoor and outdoor components well-maintained will help you stay cool all summer!
Spring cleaning
As the weather warms up and flowers bloom, it's the perfect time to tackle spring cleaning in your home. Say goodbye to clutter and dust bunnies as you freshen up your space for the hotter months ahead.
Start by decluttering each room, removing items you no longer need or use. Consider investing in new storage and organization tools. Open up those windows and let the fresh air flow through, clearing out any stale winter odors that may have lingered.
Dust surfaces, wipe down baseboards and scrub your floors to create a clean and inviting environment. Don't forget about often overlooked areas like behind appliances and under furniture!
Organize closets and cabinets to make it easier to find what you need quickly. Consider donating gently used items to make space for new summer essentials.
Check your screens
Over time, screens can get damaged or worn out, allowing pesky insects and debris to find their way indoors.
Scrutinize each screen for tears or holes that may need repairing. If you notice any damage, consider patching it with a repair kit or replacing the entire screen if necessary.
Cleaning your screens is also important to ensure proper airflow and keep them looking fresh. Use a mild detergent and water to gently scrub away dirt and grime that may have accumulated during the winter months.
Add awnings for extra shade
When the sun starts beating down on your home, finding ways to beat the heat becomes a top priority. Adding window coverings like awnings effectively creates extra shade and keeps your house cool. Awnings provide relief from the sweltering sun and add a style touch to your home's exterior.
By installing awnings, you can reduce the direct sunlight that enters your windows, helping to naturally lower indoor temperatures. This can decrease reliance on air conditioning units and ultimately save you money on energy bills. Additionally, awnings protect furniture and flooring from fading due to sun exposure, extending their longevity.
Flip the switch on your ceiling fans
One simple way to prepare is by flipping the switch on your ceiling fans. By changing the direction of your fan blades, you can optimize airflow and create a more comfortable environment in your home.
Set your ceiling fan to rotate counterclockwise at a higher speed during the summer. This will create a wind-chill effect that helps cool the room quickly and efficiently. Remember that ceiling fans do not lower the temperature but make you feel cooler by circulating air around you.
Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
One crucial aspect of home prepping that often gets overlooked is testing your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. These life-saving devices are critical in alerting you to potential dangers in your home.
Take a few moments to press the test button on each detector to ensure they are functioning correctly. This simple task can make a significant difference in protecting your household from fire and carbon monoxide exposure. Remember, these detectors are designed to provide early warnings so you can evacuate safely if necessary.
Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly, ideally once a month.
Change to lighter linens for the season
Say goodbye to heavy blankets and winter-themed decorations and welcome in lighter fabrics, bright colors and beachy accents. Consider changing your throw pillows with vibrant hues or floral patterns that scream summer. Swap out your cozy winter rugs for straw mats or light cotton options that give your space a breezy feel.
Incorporate elements like seashells, tropical prints or even fresh flowers to bring a touch of summer indoors.
Yard maintenance
As the warmer months approach, giving your yard some TLC is essential to ensure it stays in top shape throughout the summer. Start by mowing the grass regularly to keep it looking neat and healthy. Trim any overgrown shrubs or trees to maintain a tidy appearance and promote growth.
Don't forget to weed flower beds and around walkways to prevent unwanted plants from taking over. Add fresh mulch to help retain moisture in the soil and suppress weed growth. Consider planting colorful flowers or adding potted plants for a pop of color and charm.
Inspect your outdoor lighting fixtures and replace burnt-out bulbs for added safety and ambiance during evening gatherings. Check your irrigation system for any leaks or malfunctions, ensuring your lawn stays hydrated without wasting water.
Clean refrigerator coils
Cleaning the coils of your fridge often gets overlooked but can make a big difference in its efficiency. Over time, dust and debris can accumulate on the coils at the back or underneath your fridge. This makes it work harder and use more energy.
Regularly maintaining your refrigerator coils helps lower energy consumption and extends the life of your appliance.
Check the weather before home prepping
Are you ready for the summer? As the hotter months approach, preparing your home can significantly improve comfort and efficiency. Follow these steps for home prepping to ensure your home is ready for the months ahead.
Check the weather ahead to beat the heat and prepare for rainy days ahead.
