Arguably the busiest time of the year for homeowners is summer. With school out, the constant yard work, vacations and outings booking up our calendars, things are bound to get lost in the busy summer shuffle. But indoor comfort should not be one of those things.
To help provide you with peace of mind for your home this summer, we’ve asked Williams Comfort Air and Mr. Plumber, leaders in heating, cooling, plumbing and electrical services, to provide us with a list of the 10 best tips to prioritize home comfort this summer and leave you feeling stress-free.
1. Schedule Annual Air Conditioning System Maintenance
“Regular maintenance ensures your air conditioning system operates efficiently and helps identify any potential issues before they escalate,” says Roger Elkins, HVAC service director for Williams Comfort Air. According to a 2023 home maintenance survey performed by Williams Comfort Air, only 40% of homeowners have scheduled at least one maintenance visit for their HVAC and/or plumbing system in the last year – and 30% have never had an HVAC and/or plumbing maintenance visit. An annual inspection by a professional technician can catch minor issues early, preventing them from turning into costly repairs or system breakdowns during the hottest months.
2. Have Your Sewer Line Inspected
“Scheduling a sewer line inspection can detect any potential sewer blockages or signs of damage, preventing backups and costly repairs down the line,” says Paul Hallam, director of plumbing at Mr. Plumber. “Identifying and addressing sewer line issues preemptively can save homeowners from the inconvenience and expense of dealing with sewage backups, especially when temperatures are soaring.”
3. Consider a Whole-Home Backup Generator
“Investing in a whole-home backup generator ensures uninterrupted power supply, allowing your air conditioning, refrigeration and other essential systems to continue running seamlessly during outages,” suggests DJ Callahan, director of electrical for Williams Comfort Air. A whole-home backup generator automatically kicks in when the power goes out, providing peace of mind and safeguarding your home and family against the inconveniences and potential hazards associated with extended power loss.
4. Replace Your HVAC Filter
“A dirty filter restricts airflow, making your system work harder and increasing energy consumption,” explains Elkins. “Replace your HVAC filter every two to three months to maintain indoor air quality and efficiency.” Neglecting filter replacement not only compromises indoor air quality, but also puts unnecessary strain on your HVAC system, potentially leading to premature failure or costly repairs.
5. Install a Smart Thermostat
“A smart thermostat allows you to control your home’s temperature remotely, optimizing energy usage and potentially reducing utility bills,” says Elkins. With a smart thermostat, homeowners can adjust temperature settings based on their schedule and preferences, maximizing comfort while minimizing energy waste and expenses.
6. Purchase a Battery Backup Sump Pump
“Heavy summer storms can lead to basement flooding,” warns Hallam. “A battery backup sump pump helps your basement stay dry, continuing to pump water out of your sump pit even during power outages.” Protecting your basement from flooding not only safeguards your belongings, but also prevents structural damage and mold growth, saving you from costly repairs and health hazards.
7. Consider Scheduling Air Duct Cleaning
“Over time, dust, debris and allergens can accumulate in your air ducts, affecting indoor air quality,” says Elkins. “Consider professional air duct cleaning to improve air circulation and reduce allergens.” Clean air ducts promote better indoor air quality, reduce the risk of respiratory issues, and enhance the overall efficiency of your HVAC system.
8. Flush Your Water Heater
“Flushing your water heater removes sediment buildup, improving efficiency and extending its lifespan,” says Hallam. “Make it a part of your annual maintenance routine.” Sediment buildup not only reduces the efficiency of your water heater, but also increases the risk of corrosion and premature failure. Flushing the water heater annually is commonly recommended by manufacturers and necessary to keep new water heaters under warranty. It also helps maintain optimal performance and prolongs its service life.
9. Perform a Water Quality Analysis
“Understanding the quality of your drinking water is essential for your family’s health and well-being,” says Hallam. Testing your water can reveal issues such as hardness, contaminants, chlorine, chloramine, or PFAS (known as “forever chemicals”) that may affect your water’s taste, odor or safety. Armed with this knowledge, you can take appropriate measures to address any concerns, whether it’s incorporating a filtration system, water softener, or other treatment solution to ensure your drinking water meets safety standards and tastes great.
10. Turn off Your Water Before Leaving for Vacation
“Before embarking on your summer getaway, it’s wise to close your main water valve to your home and turn off your water supply, to prevent any potential leaks or malfunctions while you’re away,” warns Hallam. This simple step can help mitigate the risk of water damage in your absence.
By implementing these expert tips, homeowners can ensure their homes remain comfortable, efficient and protected throughout the summer months and beyond. Let these recommendations serve as a roadmap to a worry-free summer, where your home is your ultimate sanctuary of comfort and safety.
