Getting Ready for Warmer Weather

Submitted by Capstone Homes on

Most Ohioans eagerly await the arrival of summer. After all, the nicer weather means there are far more things to enjoy outside as the weather improves. Of course, warmer weather also entails some important changes for your home. Now that things are thawed out and drying out after spring showers, there are a few home maintenance tasks to consider taking care of as well.

Prepare the Garden and Flower Beds

May is a great month to prepare your outdoor garden and flower beds for summer growth. Common spring tasks include pulling weds, adding mulch, and pruning plants such as roses. It may also be a good idea to collect a soil test. State soil testing will tell you which nutrients are in your garden soil so you can make smarter decisions about what type of fertilizer your garden needs.

Inspect Filters and the Hot Water Heater

Spring is a great time to inspect your furnace filter and hot water heater. If the furnace filter looks dirty, it should be replaced to ensure there is enough airflow for your HVAC system.

The water heater should be flushed once a year to remove sediment. Turn off the power and water supply valve to the water heater. Attach a hose to the drain valve and open it to drain the water out. Briefly open the supply valve to flush out any remaining sediment. Once the water is clean, close the drain valve, re-open the supply valve, and turn power back on.

Clean and Protect the Air Conditioning Unit

Your air conditioner will get a lot of use during a hot Ohio summer. Leaves, sticks, and other debris will often accumulate around the outdoor condenser unit during the winter. Clear such debris from around the unit, and make sure that nearby plant life has been trimmed back to allow adequate airflow.

At Capstone Custom Homes, we care deeply about your home maintaining its value long after we’ve built it. Our high-quality materials ensure that your home will stand the test of time. Taking a little of your own time for some warm-weather care will further protect your investment in your home.