Preventative Home Maintenance: What to Tackle Before It Gets Hot

  • Michael Royal
    • April 23, 2025

When spring rolls into summer and temperatures rise to unbelievable numbers, the last thing you want to deal with is a broken air conditioner, a roof leak during a thunderstorm, or a plumbing issue caused by winter wear and tear. 

This guide will walk you through the top home maintenance tasks to handle now—before the summer heat sets in. Think of it as your seasonal tune-up checklist to keep your home running smoothly and safely all summer long.

1. Inspect and Service Your HVAC System

One of the most essential systems in your home during summer is your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system. If your air conditioner hasn’t been used in months, it’s critical to have it inspected before you rely on it daily.

  • Schedule a professional inspection: A licensed technician can check coolant levels, clean the condenser coils, and test for leaks or malfunctions.

  • Replace air filters: Dirty filters restrict airflow, reduce efficiency, and can cause system failure.

  • Clean vents and registers: Vacuum them to remove dust buildup.

  • Check your thermostat: Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat to better manage energy usage.

2. Check Windows and Doors for Air Leaks

Your air conditioner can only do so much if cold air is leaking out through poorly sealed windows and doors. Sealing up your home improves energy efficiency and keeps indoor temperatures consistent.

  • Inspect weatherstripping: If it’s cracked, brittle, or missing, replace it.

  • Re-caulk around windows and door frames to seal gaps.

  • Add thermal curtains or sun-blocking shades to reduce heat gain inside your home.

3. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters can cause water to back up onto your roof or overflow onto your foundation. Before summer storms hit, make sure water can flow freely away from your home.

  • Scoop out leaves and debris from gutters and rinse them clean with a garden hose.

  • Check downspouts for clogs and ensure they extend at least 3–4 feet away from your foundation.

  • Install gutter guards to reduce future maintenance.

4. Pest-Proof Your Home

Warmer weather brings all kinds of critters—from ants and termites to rodents and wasps. Prevention is easier (and cheaper) than extermination.

  • Seal cracks and gaps in your foundation, around doors and windows, and utility entry points.

  • Repair torn screens and ensure windows shut tightly.

  • Store food properly and keep pet food sealed.

  • Eliminate standing water in gutters, buckets, or flower pots to prevent mosquito breeding.

Preventative home maintenance may not be the most glamorous part of homeownership, but it’s one of the most valuable. Addressing small issues before summer heat and storms roll in helps you avoid expensive repairs, uncomfortable breakdowns, and even dangerous situations