Every season comes with different considerations for homeowners – even if you’re in a brand-new home. From clearing gutters in the fall, checking insulation before winter, or tuning up your AC in the spring, each season brings its own to-do list.
Here’s a checklist for your home’s summer maintenance.
1. HVAC
Even a brand-new HVAC system benefits from regular checks. Replacing air filters approximately every 90 days helps keep exterior units free from debris – both vital to keeping your unit in working order (and not leaving you in a hot home in July).
“HVAC maintenance is critical even in a new system. Don't assume your HVAC is good to go just because it's new,” said Justin Olewack, CEO of BOLT Builders. “Summer is when your AC is under the most stress. I always recommend a full system check-up and filter change before summer.”
Your HVAC checklist, according to UTTKE Heating & Cooling:
Replace or clean your air filters. Do this each season.
Check your thermostat settings. Typically, experts recommend setting your thermostat to 75-78 degrees during peak hours to balance coolness and efficiency.
Keep your outdoor unit clean and clear. Debris – leaves, grass, dirt, etc. – can gather around your outdoor unit, restricting airflow. Ensure grass is mowed around the unit, and ensure any clippings and dirt are blown or rinsed off of the unit.
Get a professional summer maintenance check. Although this should be done in spring, better late than never. A technician can inspect and clean the evaporator and condenser coils, check refrigerant levels, and ensure proper drainage.
Also check vents, registers, and your thermostat to confirm everything is running efficiently. While some warranties may cover annual servicing, it’s best to err on the side of caution during the hottest part of the year.
Some signs your HVAC needs attention:
Unusual noises or smells
Uneven cooling/hot spots
Frequent cycling or constant running
2. Windows and Doors
Most homes, even newly constructed ones, often shift slightly, especially in the first year, which can lead to small gaps in window and door seals.
“The first summer is when your home really starts to settle,” Olewack said. “That's when small cracks can form, caulk can separate, and expansion gaps show up, especially in areas with heat and humidity.”
Inspect caulking and weather stripping, clean glass and frames, and lubricate locks and hinges if needed. This will improve energy efficiency and keep cooling costs in check.
Also of note: a door that begins sticking or is a little harder to close in warmer months is normal. Sticking windows? Time to call a pro.
3. Roofing and Attic
Climb into the attic or visually scan the roof for early signs of trouble: damp insulation, light leaks, or missing shingles.
“Keep an eye on attic ventilation. If your attic wasn't properly ventilated or insulated by the builder, you're going to feel it in the summer,” Olewack said. “Make sure your soffit and ridge vents are clear. And if it still feels like an oven up there, bring in a pro to evaluate airflow."
Early detection is key: many builders’ warranties cover structural issues within the first year or two.
4. Exterior Surfaces
Your home’s exterior isn’t just cosmetic, and its maintenance is just as important as the interior.
Your exterior summer maintenance checklist:
Power wash. Remove mold, mildew, and grime that can degrade surfaces over time. Stick to appropriate pressure settings for your siding type and don’t forget the driveway, patio, and walkways.
Exterior paint. After you power wash, touch up paint as needed.
Clean gutters and inspecting grading/drainage. Gutters accumulate debris year-round, and even during construction. Ensure they’re draining properly and look for signs of sagging or overflow, which indicates potential clogs or misalignment.
“After the first few heavy summer storms (believe me, they will come), I always recommend checking how your grading and drainage are performing,” Olewack said. “A quick redirect of the downspout or re-grading around the base is a quick project that can prevent major water intrusion issues later.”
Get a roof inspection. Have your roof inspected once a year – summer is a great time to do it, when conditions are typically safer for inspectors. You should also have it inspected any time you experience extreme weather.
Decks and patios. You likely did an inspection of these areas in the spring, but as summer winds down, check that they’re in good shape to weather the winter. Check for rotting wood, loose nails, or splinters.
5. Irrigation Systems
Outdoor water systems, whether installed by the builder or added after closing, should be tested regularly to ensure they’re running smoothly. This helps ensure optimal efficiency and prevents expensive repairs, according to Spade Landscaping.
Your irrigation system checklist:
Monitor for leaks and water waste. Signs of pooling water or other wet spots are leakage indicators.
Inspect and clean filters.
Adjust watering schedules to accommodate fluctuating weather conditions such as prolonged heat or unexpected rainfall to avoid under- or overwatering.
Address plant growth that obstructs sprinkler heads or drip lines. Trim bushes, grass, and trees to ensure unobstructed water delivery.
Run a comprehensive system test.
Check for clogs or misaligned sprinkler heads.
Adjust timers for early morning or evening watering to reduce evaporation and meet local water regulations.
6. Landscaping
While you’re outside, don’t forget to address lawn maintenance.
Keep your lawn mowed and trimmed to keep unwanted pests at bay.
Keep newly planted trees, shrubs, and sod carefully watered
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, and trim overgrowth to prevent interference with siding and ventilation.
Also watch for standing water near the foundation, which can indicate grading or drainage problems. Damage to the foundation is costly, so it’s better to be vigilant.
Inspect your outdoor lighting – replace bulbs, inspect outlet coverings, and ensure cords are properly plugged in to avoid safety hazards.
7. Warranty Watch
Summer is a good time to review your builder’s warranty. Many cosmetic issues, such as cracks, squeaky doors, and drywall separations are only covered during the first year, but some warranties can last much longer if you opt for them.
Schedule any final walkthroughs and document issues before deadlines expire.
Bottom Line
New homes may start with a clean slate, but seasonal upkeep is crucial for preserving their value and performance. Tackling these summer maintenance tasks can prevent costly repairs down the road—and help ensure your home stays “like new” for years to come.
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