Scrub down your grill in time for summer barbecues
Everyone’s long wait is over: summer is finally here. To make sure you and your family can fully enjoy the season, it’s time to take a good look at your home maintenance checklist. With temperatures at their peak, summer can reveal which parts of your house need the most attention.
Before that happens, here’s what you can do to make sure your home is in tip-top shape to beat the summer heat.
Check your air conditioner
The A/C in your house may be your most used in your HVAC system. Make sure they’re in peak working order. Window-type air conditioners need to have filters replaced; the same applies to split-type A/Cs. If you have centralized air-conditioning, call your provider to have it thoroughly cleaned. You don’t’ want you’re A/C conking out when it’s hot and sticky outside.
Get that green thumb ready
Your plants will be thirstiest during summer. See to it that they’re as appropriately hydrated as you are. Consider adding an extra layer of mulch to your garden. It helps the soil retain moisture and fight off weeds, especially when it’s scorching.
Check detectors
While more fires at home occur during the winter months according to the American Red Cross, it still pays to be safe all year round. Most fires start in the kitchen so check that your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning correctly.
Deep clean carpets
The American College of Asthma, Allergy, and Immunology says summer can also bring out the worst allergies. Culprits include pollen and mold, but food pollen from celery, apples, melons, and tree nuts can also cause allergic reactions. Don’t allow pollen to cling to your rugs and carpets. Deep cleaning them is something that you should do once a year to limit allergens. You can also DIY this task by renting a carpet cleaning machine from your nearest home improvement store.
Skip the dryer
Evoke bygone days by hanging your clothes in an outdoor clothesline at a time. You can save energy and put in your bit for the environment by foregoing the dryer every so often. Nothing like the smell of fresh, air-dried sheets, too!
Clean your porch
Make the porch one of the most used places in your house. Give it a good scrub; add pots of summer blooms like zinnias, mums, peonies, hibiscus, and trumpet vines; replace worn cushions; add a porch swing or hammock if you have the space. Then bring out the fruit slushies for all to enjoy.
Check the deck
You should examine your deck to see if any boards are rotting so you can have them replaced. Or secure loosened planks. Test if your deck needs resealing. Here’s a good way to find out – pour water on the deck; if it puddles up, your deck is still good. If the water is absorbed, it’s time to get your deck resealed.
Clean your grills
If you want to host summer barbecues, make sure your grills are clean.
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For charcoal grills: Empty the grill and wipe down dust and residue. Dunk a scrub brush in hot water and dish soap and then leave it to dry. Use it to clean the interior and exterior of the grill.
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For gas grills: Shut the lid, turn the heat to high, and allow the grill to “cook” for about 30 minutes. Let it cool. Sweep the grill with a grill brush. Wipe down the exterior with a sponge and cleaner. Make sure to clean out all of the drip trays.
Take good care of your home so you can enjoy it with every changing season. Browse the blog for more home maintenance tips and information. For real estate concerns in Somerset, Hunterdon, Morris and Union Counties, New Jersey, don’t hesitate to contact Cindy Pagnotta and her team at 908.436.7947 or info(at)pagnottahomes(dotted)com.