Prepping Your Home for Summer 101

A lot of homeowners concentrate on prepping their properties for winter; and for good reason, snow and ice can wreak havoc, while a working heating source is a must. Yet preparing your home for summer is just as necessary. While warm weather may not seem like it takes much planning for, don't forget about central air systems or the damage a summer storm can cause. 

Here's a quick intro to what you know need to know about prepping your home for summer:

Make sure your ceiling fans rotate counterclockwise

You might not know it, but ceiling fans should rotate clockwise in winter, and the reverse in summer. Why? The clockwise motion distributes hot air, while a counterclockwise spin pushes air down, creating a much-needed breeze. There's usually a small switch near the base of the fan, so be sure each is going in the counterclockwise direction.

Inspect the AC and ventilation

If replacing your air conditioner's filters wasn't already high on the to-do list, bump it up there. You'll want to be prepared as soon as the heat descends with an efficient AC unit. Not only are new, clean filters important to that, but also ductwork free from ventilation leaks. Take some time to survey your ventilation system and grates to ensure everything is in order. A hissing sound could indicate escaping air.

Put up window screens or storm windows

If you took out a window screen during winter, don't waste time in putting it back in for summer. Bugs aren't the most welcome of house guests, and having a barrier up before they swarm is good sense. On the other hand, storm windows are an alternative to window replacements that can help keep hot air out and cool air in, as well as offer protection in the worst of summer weather.

Clean out the gutters

If you procrastinated on cleaning out the gutters in spring, don't let the task sit too long into summer. A downpour could cause avoidable damage to the home — like a roof leak — if the gutters aren't obstacle-free. Just be sure to remember ladder safety, and it doesn't hurt to have a spotter. Don't forget to tend to the downspouts, too.

Ready your summer yard tools

Can't wait to break out the weed trimmer or lawn mower? Be careful to not overexert the machine after months out of use. It's a good idea to empty the tank and fill it up with new fuel if you have gasoline-powered equipment. In general, give your machinery a tune-up in preparation for a heavy summer workload.

Check the spigots and sprinklers

Summer is the time to get your lawn back to that lush, verdant green status, but you need a working irrigation or watering system first. Outside spigots should have been shut off during winter, so slowly reopen the flow and connect the hose or other units. Also take a walk around to see if everything is in order, and check for leaks or other malfunctions that may cause your water bill to spike.

Need other help for your homeowner needs? Contact your local Vectra Bank rep today for advice for your household, as well as its finances.