Summary
What are the maintenance tips and home upgrades for the summer? This article explores 6 key tips homeowners should complete during the summer: tune up or upgrade their thermostat, check smoke and CO alarms, and install a water leak detector.
Six Ways to Keep Home Running Smoothly this Summer
Six ways to help ensure homes are well-prepared for the rising temperatures, keeping families comfortable and safe during the warmer months
Warmer months bring more than beach days and backyard cookouts – they can also bring extreme heat and severe storms that put added stress on homes. Homeowners can take these simple steps to be prepared for what the season might throw at them:
1. Upgrade to a smart thermostat
Balance comfort and energy savings as temps rise with a smart thermostat that offers features like humidity monitoring and smart scheduling. The Honeywell Home X8S smart thermostat can easily adjust between heating and cooling modes for when the weather is unpredictable because a changing season shouldn't get in the way of returning to a comfortable home. Advanced occupancy and presence detection help the smart thermostat adjust settings to maximize comfort when home and save energy when away. Consider adding optional Smart Room Sensors to help deliver comfort to the right room at the right time.
2. Schedule an HVAC inspection
Before the weather heats up and draws too much on your air conditioner, schedule a professional maintenance service to ensure that your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are operating optimally and won’t quit after the first heat wave. Have an HVAC contractor check refrigerant levels, clean coils, and inspect electrical components during a spring tune-up, as addressing minor issues early can help prevent breakdowns and support efficient performance. To find a local contractor who can help, visit https://www.honeywellhome.com/pages/find-a-pro.
3. Check AC filter
Throughout winter, heating system’s air filters naturally accumulate dust and other airborne particles, which can clog air filters, impact indoor air quality and affect system performance. Regularly replacing air filters is a great way to help maintain indoor air quality and support a comfortable environment.
4. Detect egress water
Summer storms can overwhelm drains and lead to unexpected water backups. Undetected leaks or even high humidity can cause significant repairs, but early detection can prevent thousands of dollars in potential repairs. The First Alert L1 WiFi Water and Freeze Detector helps homeowners stay ahead by sending alerts directly to their phone if it detects leaks, freezing temperatures, or elevated humidity levels. Easy to install and move as needed, this detector is especially helpful in basements, near water heaters, or under sinks. It’s also a smart choice for rental properties and second homes, or multi-family residences, where damage can spread beyond their own walls. Ensure that downspouts and gutters are clear from any debris so that water isn’t pooling next to the home.
5. Update smoke & CO detection
During the summer, many families have older kids and teens spending more time at home on their own. That seasonal shift makes it especially important to ensure smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms are working properly. Now is the perfect time to test alarms and consider an upgrade during new season.
The First Alert® Smart Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm delivers advanced sensing technology, critical alerts and a seamless smart home experience. It enables interconnected coverage across multiple alarms. If one detects danger, all of them sound – whether parents are at home or away.
6. Ready for outdoor adventures
Longer days and warmer temperatures mean it’s time to get back to outdoor favorites, from grilling on the patio to weekend camping trips and evenings around the fire pit. While gathering spring gear, having the right safety tools nearby is just as important as sunscreen and insect repellent. Offering an easy-to-use solution in the event a small fire breaks out, the First Alert EZ Fire Spray features a lightweight spray-can design that has no pins or levers – just point and spray. Its small size makes it ideal for storage and travel, and easier to use than a traditional fire extinguisher.
To learn more about how to ensure homes are ready for the warmer temperatures, connect with a professional HVAC contractor about installation, or pricing on Honeywell Home and First Alert products, visit Honeywellhome.com or Firstalert.com.
See also:
Six Ways to Use Smart Thermostats to Reduce Energy Use and Unlock Greater Savings
Prepare Your Home for an Active Hurricane Season: Essential Safety Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of upgrading to a smart thermostat?
Smart thermostats, like the Honeywell Home X8S, help homeowners heat more efficiently through features such as guided scheduling and geofencing, daily HVAC runtime and monthly energy reports, smart room sensors, and occupancy sensing. These tools reduce unnecessary runtime while maintaining consistent comfort.
Why should I schedule an HVAC inspection?
Schedule a professional inspection of HVAC equipment to ensure it operates at peak performance. An inspection can also identify harmful cracks that could potentially lead to carbon monoxide seeping into the home.
What should I pack for my camping trip?
When packing for a camping trip, be sure to pack the right safety tools. Add a can of First Alert EZ Fire Spray is lightweight, and its spray-can design makes it easier to use than a traditional fire extinguisher.
What kitchen safety tips should my teen know?
Even small fires can cause big damage if they aren’t quickly contained. Having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. Make sure teens know where fire extinguishers are kept in the kitchen and to discuss exit routes in case of an emergency.
