Ready to roll into summer with a house that’s as fresh as a California orange? In Citrus Heights, the sun is shining, the pollen is flying, and your to-do list is calling. May and June are the perfect months to get your home in tip-top shape before the heat really sets in. Here’s your witty, practical guide to the top home maintenance tasks for Citrus Heights folks who want to keep their homes comfortable, safe, and looking sharp.
1. Give Your Cooling System Some Love
The Sacramento Valley sun doesn’t mess around, and neither should you when it comes to your air conditioning. Check and clean your air conditioning filters to keep the cool air flowing and your energy bills from skyrocketing. If your unit’s been hibernating all winter, give it a test run. Not feeling the chill? It might be time for a professional tune-up. Clean your ceiling fans, too. Wipe the blades, set them to spin counter-clockwise, and let them help you beat the heat.
2. Spruce Up Those Windows and Screens
Winter grime and spring pollen have probably left their mark. Wash your windows inside and out using a simple vinegar and water solution. Don’t forget the window tracks—those tiny ledges love to collect dirt. Take down your screens, hose them off, and gently scrub with soapy water. Patch any small holes with repair tape to keep the bugs outside where they belong. If you spot a big tear, it’s time for a replacement.
3. Inspect and Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Even in sunny Citrus Heights, spring showers can leave debris behind. Clear out leaves, twigs, and anything else clogging your gutters and downspouts. Check for leaks or sagging sections and make repairs as needed. This simple task helps prevent water damage and keeps your foundation happy.
4. Check Your Roof and Siding
Give your roof a quick visual inspection. Look for loose or missing shingles, moss, or signs of wear. If you see anything suspicious, call in a pro before summer storms roll through. While you’re at it, pressure wash your siding to remove dirt and mildew, and check for cracks or soft spots that might need repair.
5. Prep the Yard and Garden
Your lawn and garden are about to become the stars of the season. Run your irrigation system, fix leaks, and set timers to match the summer heat. Mow the lawn regularly, trim bushes and trees away from the house, and add mulch to garden beds to keep weeds down and moisture in. Don’t forget to check hoses and outdoor faucets for leaks—small drips can lead to big water bills.
6. Clean and Inspect Outdoor Living Spaces
Patio season is here. Wash your outdoor furniture and cushions with mild soap and water. Inspect your deck or patio for loose boards, protruding nails, or splinters. If your deck’s looking tired, consider a fresh coat of stain or sealant. Check fences and gates for damage and make repairs before summer gatherings begin.
7. Organize the Garage and Shed
If your garage or shed looks like a tornado hit it, now’s the time to sort, donate, or toss old tools and supplies. Store chemicals and paints safely, especially as temperatures rise. Keep dangerous items out of reach of kids and pets, and make sure everything is easy to find for your next project.
8. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Safety first. Test all your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed. Stock up on extras so you’re never caught off guard. If any detectors are past their expiration date, swap them out for new ones.
9. Tidy Up the Kitchen and Fridge
With summer barbecues and backyard parties ahead, your fridge is about to get busy. Clean out expired food, wipe down shelves, and swap out the old baking soda box for a fresh deodorizer. Clean the freezer and ice maker, and run vinegar through the water line if needed. Change the water filter for crisp, clean hydration all summer long.
10. Keep Pests at Bay
Warm weather means bugs want in. Spray for ants, spiders, and other pests, and pour out any standing water to keep mosquitoes away. If you have a pool, check the gate and consider adding a sensor for extra safety. Set up fans in outdoor seating areas to keep flying critters from crashing your party.
Bonus: Citrus Heights Homeowner’s Secret Weapon
If you’d rather spend your weekends at Rusch Park than scrubbing floors, consider hiring a local cleaning service. Citrus Heights has top-rated, affordable cleaners who can help you keep your home sparkling without breaking a sweat.
Home Maintenance Checklist for Every Season
Want to keep your home running smoothly all year? Bookmark a seasonal home maintenance checklist to stay on track. From monthly tasks like trimming around your HVAC unit to yearly roof inspections, a good checklist is your best friend for hassle-free homeownership.
Tackling these home maintenance tasks in May and June means you’ll be ready for whatever summer brings—whether it’s backyard BBQs, pool parties, or just relaxing in your cool, comfortable home. Happy maintaining, Citrus Heights!
Sources: bhg.com, universalproperty.com
Header Image Source: Mat Kilkeary on Unsplash
