Summer is the perfect season to take better care of your home, and in this blog, I’m sharing my best tips for homeowners who want to keep everything running smoothly. Whether you're planning to enjoy your backyard, host guests, or just keep your home in great shape, summer maintenance plays a big role. Taking time to check and fix things now can save you from costly problems later.

Summer brings longer days, hot weather, and more outdoor fun, but it can also be hard on your home. From strong sun exposure to heavy use of air conditioning, your house goes through a lot. By using these smart and simple tips for homeowners, you’ll keep your home comfortable, safe, and looking great all season long.

• Check your air conditioning before it gets too hot.

• Could you clean out your gutters after spring rains?

Let’s dive into the top summer home maintenance tips I always recommend to my clients and neighbors!

Exterior Inspection & Repairs

I always start outside because that’s the part of the home that takes the most direct beating from the summer sun, wind, and weather. Begin by checking your roof for loose or missing shingles. Even a small problem now can lead to a leak during an unexpected summer storm. While you're at it, inspect your gutters. Make sure they’re clean and flowing properly. Clogged gutters can cause water to pool around your foundation and lead to damage.

It’s also important to walk around your home and look for cracks in the foundation, chipped paint, or siding that may need repair. Taking care of small exterior issues now can prevent them from becoming expensive problems down the line. These outdoor checks are key tips for homeowners who want to protect their property’s value and appearance.

HVAC System Maintenance

Your air conditioning system is about to do a lot of work. One of the best tips for homeowners is to get a professional A/C tune-up before the heat really kicks in. A quick check can keep your system running efficiently and help you avoid a surprise breakdown during a heatwave.

Also, remember to change your HVAC filters regularly. I suggest checking them monthly during the summer, especially if you have pets or allergies. Clean filters help your system work better and improve indoor air quality. Don’t forget to clear leaves, grass, or debris around your outdoor A/C unit so that air can flow freely.

Lawn & Landscape Care

Summer is when your lawn and plants grow fast, so keeping up with landscape care is essential. Mow regularly, but avoid cutting your grass too short—doing so can actually weaken it in the heat. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation and save water.

If you use a sprinkler system, check for broken heads or leaks. You’d be surprised how much water (and money) a hidden leak can waste. One of my go-to tips for homeowners is to add mulch around flower beds and trees. It helps the soil retain moisture and keeps weeds down. Plus, it gives your yard a fresh, polished look.

Pest Prevention

With warmer temperatures come more bugs and pests. Don’t wait until you see ants marching through your kitchen. Walk around your home and check for openings around doors, windows, or your foundation where pests can enter. Sealing up gaps and cracks is a simple and effective step.

I also recommend keeping food sealed and trash areas clean. If you’re spending more time outdoors, check your deck and eaves for signs of wasp nests. Using natural repellents or calling a pest control expert can keep your home protected. These pest prevention ideas are essential tips for homeowners who want peace of mind all summer long.

Deck, Patio, and Outdoor Furniture Upkeep

Your deck or patio becomes the heart of your summer hangouts, so take time to clean and inspect it. Sweep away debris, then use a power washer or hose to give it a good scrub. If your deck is wood, resealing it every few years helps prevent splinters and weather damage.

Outdoor furniture should also be cleaned and stored properly when not in use. Wipe down cushions and protect them from sun damage by storing them inside or using furniture covers. Make sure tables and chairs are sturdy and don’t have rust or loose bolts. These small updates are great tips for homeowners who love to entertain.

Safety Checks

Summer is also a good time for basic safety checks around the house. Test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms to make sure they’re working properly. This might seem like a small task, but it could save lives.

I also advise homeowners to check fire extinguishers to ensure they’re fully charged and not expired. Clean out your dryer vent, especially if it hasn’t been done in a while—lint build-up can be a serious fire risk. Staying on top of these safety items are some of the most overlooked but crucial tips for homeowners.

Indoor Maintenance Tasks

While the outdoors gets most of our attention in the summer, don’t forget your indoor spaces. Ceiling fans collect a lot of dust, so clean those blades regularly to avoid spreading it through your home. Wipe down baseboards and light fixtures to freshen up your living space.

Check your doors and windows for drafts or leaks. Adding weather stripping or sealing any gaps can help your A/C work more efficiently. One of my most recommended tips for homeowners is to flush your water heater once a year. It removes sediment buildup and helps the system run better.

Pool & Water Feature Maintenance (If Applicable)

If you’re lucky enough to have a pool or water feature, then you know summer is when they get the most use. Check your pool chemicals weekly and balance them properly. Clean out the filters and skim leaves or debris from the surface daily if needed.

Inspect the area for cracks, broken tiles, or leaks. Make sure safety fences and covers are in place, especially if you have children or pets. Keeping everything clean and safe is not just about enjoyment—it’s also one of the smart tips for homeowners who want to maintain home value.

Final Thoughts

Summer should be a time to enjoy your home, not stress about repairs. By following these easy and practical tips for homeowners, you’ll save money, stay safe, and keep your home in tip-top shape all season long. Whether it’s checking your roof, tuning up your A/C, or simply watering your garden the right way, a little effort goes a long way.

If you’re not sure where to start or need help deciding which updates will add the most value to your home, I’m here to guide you. My job as a realtor isn’t just to help people buy and sell—it's to support you at every stage of homeownership.

I'm Mariela Velazquez, your local real estate expert based in San Jose, CA, proudly serving the surrounding areas. If you ever have questions about your home, your neighborhood, or your future plans, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call or text me anytime at +1 408-849-9297. I’d love to help you make the most of your home this summer and beyond!