1. Give Your Air Conditioner a Helping Hand

Your air conditioner works harder than almost any other appliance during extreme heat.

A few simple steps can improve its efficiency:

• Replace or clean your air filter every 30–60 days.

• Keep outdoor condenser units free of weeds, grass, leaves, and debris.

• Leave at least two feet of open space around the unit for proper airflow.

• Schedule professional maintenance if your system hasn't been serviced recently.

• Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest part of the day to reduce indoor heat.

If your AC is constantly running but struggling to cool the home, it may be time for a professional inspection before a minor issue becomes a major repair.

2. Check Your Roof

The roof absorbs the full force of the summer sun every day.

Watch for:

• Curling or cracked shingles

• Loose flashing around vents and chimneys

• Signs of leaks in the attic

• Excessive wear around skylights

Even small roofing problems can become much more expensive if they're ignored through an entire summer.

3. Protect Your Landscaping

Triple-digit temperatures can stress even established plants.

To keep your yard healthy:

• Water deeply in the early morning.

• Add fresh mulch around trees and flower beds to help retain moisture.

• Watch for signs of heat stress, including wilting, browning, or scorched leaves.

• Adjust sprinkler schedules based on local watering guidelines.

Healthy landscaping also helps protect soil around your home's foundation.

4. Don't Forget Your Foundation

Hot, dry weather causes soil to shrink as moisture evaporates. Uneven drying around your home can contribute to foundation movement over time.

To help minimize risk:

• Keep soil around the foundation consistently moist—not saturated.

• Repair leaking sprinklers.

• Make sure downspouts direct water away from the home.

• Watch for new cracks in walls, ceilings, or around doors and windows.

5. Inspect Windows and Doors

Extreme heat can dry out weatherstripping and seals.

Take a few minutes to:

• Check for air leaks.

• Replace worn weatherstripping.

• Reseal cracked caulking around windows and doors.

• Make sure screens are secure for evening ventilation.

Good seals reduce cooling costs and help your HVAC system work more efficiently.

6. Check Your Irrigation System

A broken sprinkler head or leaking drip line can waste thousands of gallons of water during the hottest months.

Run each irrigation zone occasionally and look for:

• Broken sprinkler heads

• Dry spots

• Overspray onto sidewalks

• Leaks around valves or pipes

Small repairs now can prevent dead landscaping later.

7. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Although summer is dry in many areas, sudden thunderstorms can dump large amounts of water quickly.

Clean gutters help:

• Prevent roof damage

• Reduce water intrusion

• Protect your foundation

• Prevent fascia and soffit deterioration

8. Watch Exterior Paint and Wood

Intense UV rays break down paint, stain, and exposed wood over time.

Inspect:

• Trim

• Decks

• Fences

• Railings

• Exterior doors

Touching up peeling paint early helps protect wood from long-term damage.

9. Think About Fire Safety

During hot, dry conditions, wildfire risk increases.

Homeowners should:

• Remove dry vegetation near the home.

• Keep grass trimmed.

• Store firewood away from structures.

• Clean leaves from roofs and gutters.

• Check outdoor hoses and make sure they're easily accessible.

10. Prepare for Higher Energy Bills

When temperatures stay above 100°, your cooling system may run nearly nonstop.

To improve efficiency:

• Use ceiling fans to circulate cool air.

• Avoid using ovens during the hottest part of the day.

• Run dishwashers and laundry in the evening.

• Consider a programmable or smart thermostat.

Small changes can make a noticeable difference in monthly utility costs.

A Little Maintenance Goes a Long Way

Extreme summer temperatures are tough on homes, but regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your home's major systems.

Whether you're planning to stay in your home for years or thinking about selling, keeping up with seasonal maintenance helps protect one of your biggest investments.

If you're wondering what maintenance projects add the most value before selling, or you'd like advice specific to your home, I'd be happy to help.