As the warmer months approach, it's easy to get caught up in vacation plans, gardening, and backyard barbecues. But along with the sunshine comes the potential for costly repairs. The good news? A little preventive maintenance in spring can go a long way in avoiding summer repair headaches.
Here are some smart steps homeowners can take today to dodge summer repair costs tomorrow:
1. Service Your Air Conditioning System
Your cooling system will be working overtime during the summer, so now is the ideal time to have it inspected. A professional HVAC technician can clean coils, replace filters, and check for potential problems like refrigerant leaks or worn-out parts. A quick tune-up can improve efficiency, extend your system's lifespan, and prevent a breakdown on the hottest day of the year.
2. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters
Spring is a good time to check your roof for damage caused by winter storms. Look for loose or missing shingles, signs of water damage, or mould, and clean out gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. Clogged gutters can cause water to pool around your foundation, leading to expensive structural repairs or basement leaks.
3. Check Windows and Doors For Leaks
A well-maintained lawn looks great and helps prevent erosion and water damage. Test your sprinkler system for leaks or broken heads and adjust the schedule for seasonal weather. Overwatering can lead to high water bills and damage your landscaping, while under-watering can cause brown patches and soil issues.
4. Examine Outdoor Plumbing and Faucets
Frozen pipes over winter can cause cracks or leaks that only become noticeable in warmer weather. Check outdoor taps and hoses for signs of damage and make repairs before you start regular watering. Replacing a few washers now is far cheaper than fixing water damage later.
5. Clean and Inspect Outdoor Living Spaces
Decks, patios, and outdoor furniture often take a beating over the winter. Look for signs of rot, loose boards, or rust, and make necessary repairs before they become bigger problems. A bit of sanding, sealing, or touch-up paint can extend the life of your outdoor space and keep it safe for summer use.
6. Service Lawn Equipment
Don't wait until your lawn is overgrown to find out your mower isn't working. Clean or replace spark plugs, sharpen blades, and check oil levels in your lawn equipment. If you use a sprinkler or irrigation system, test it for leaks or misaligned heads, which can waste water and cause uneven lawn growth.
7. Test Smoke and Carbon Minoxide Detectors
Summer often means more use of grills, fire pits, and air conditioners. So, make sure your smoke and CO detectors are in working order, and replace batteries if needed. This small step can make a big difference in your family's safety.
By taking these simple steps now, you can avoid many common and costly summer repair issues — and enjoy a stress-free season focused on fun, not fixes.