The best way to thoroughly enjoy blissful summer months is with as little to worry about as possible. For homeowners, that means proactivity preparing living space, both indoors and outdoors, for rising temperatures and thoughtfully planning any time away from home.

A properly maintained cooling system is a must for the summers in central North Carolina. The first heat wave is not the time to discover an issue with climate control. While many maintenance plans are available through certified HVAC companies, there are steps that can be taken by the homeowner to ensure comfort awaits. 

• Air filters should be replaced regularly on most cooling and heating systems. Make sure to have extras on hand at all times and place a reminder on a favorite calendar.
• There are several easy-to-install programmable thermostats available that can aide in maximizing energy savings. Many models can be even controlled via a smartphone, allowing updates to be input with a few clicks.
• Room by room, check all vents and intakes to ensure none are blocked by furniture.

• Inspect all doors and windows for any cracks, gaps, or worn-out weatherstripping that might allow cool air to escape.
• Use window coverings to minimize direct sunlight pouring directly into rooms where the air conditioner is keeping cool. This may mean opening and closing curtains or blinds throughout the day, but your utility bill will thank you. 
• Engage ceiling fans to assist with circulation. During summer months, ceiling fan blades should be set to spin counterclockwise. By pushing air downward, the fan will replicate a cool breeze.
• If you have signed up for an HVAC maintenance plan, schedule an appointment soon as availability will disappear fast. 

With the inside of your home prepped for the summer months, it is time to head outside! Whether you will spend the majority of the season at home or on the road, now is the time to get ready.

At Home:

• An open-air oasis awaits but, first, give all outdoor spaces a thorough cleaning. Declutter patios or decks of debris collected over the winter. Scrub furniture and plump outdoor pillows. Make a list of any items that may need replacement in the months to come.
• Perk up gardens and porches by adding colorful flowers either in pots or inground. Adorn sitting areas with bright decor and add interest to the yard with fun birdhouses or wind spinners. 
• Invest in a sturdy umbrella or awning to create the perfect shady spot for enjoying a book or hosting an afternoon nap.
• Give the grill a thorough cleaning, guaranteeing readiness when that first cook-out is set to begin. Don’t forget to purchase extra charcoal or propane!
• Drape outdoor lighting between trees (solar, waterproof) to ensure that a fun afternoon doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down.

Prepping for the Road:

• As your summer vacation nears, ready your home for your departure by setting thermostats to “away mode” which offers a more energy-efficient temperature.
• Unplug non-essential items, such as small appliances or computers, to avoid standby power usage.
• Clean out the refrigerator! Pass along perishables (fruits, vegetables, etc.) to a neighbor or toss items that will not survive until your return.
• Empty the trash cans in each room and, if possible, have a friend roll your bins to the curb (and back) on garbage collection day.
• Start a buddy system! Offer to trade plant watering, mail collection, and pet care with a neighbor or friend throughout the summer months. Exchange travel schedules early in case any tweaks to coverage are needed.

North Carolina summers are beautiful and beg residents to slow down and relax. In order to fully embrace every moment, prepare your home well before the temperatures jump. For residents of Harbinger Homes, enjoying picturesque outdoor areas is a favorite way to spend an afternoon as friends, new and old, stop by for a visit. With a few simple steps in home prep, summertime fun can kick off without any extra worry!