Summer is a time for sunshine, outdoor fun, and making memories, but it can also be one of the most demanding seasons on your home. 

From air conditioning systems working overtime to unexpected plumbing issues and rising utility bills, the summer heat has a sneaky way of exposing a home’s weak spots.

But there’s good news. 

With just a little preparation, you can keep your home comfortable, energy-efficient, and cared for all year long.

Let’s walk through a few smart, proactive ways to summer-proof your home, and how a home warranty with APHW can help support you in case of any seasonal surprises.

Make Sure Your AC Is Summer-Ready

At the end of the day, your air conditioner is the hero during the summertime. Before the hottest days hit, it’s important to make sure your system is working as best as it can. And that starts with a professional inspection. 

A licensed HVAC technician can check refrigerant levels, clean or replace your filters, remove buildup in the drain lines, and inspect your system’s electrical components for evidence of wear.

Even if your AC seems to be working fine now, small issues can grow quickly in hot weather. A tune-up can catch those problems before they become major repairs, or leave you without cool air on a 90-degree day. 

And, if your AC does break down from normal wear and tear, your home warranty may be able to help with the cost, or even replacement, depending on your plan.

Seal Up and Cool Down

Once your cooling system is running efficiently, the next step is to keep that cool air inside your home. Over time, weather stripping around windows and doors can crack or peel, letting precious cold air seep out.

Sealing gaps with fresh caulk or foam tape can dramatically improve comfort and reduce your cooling costs.

It also helps to manage sunlight exposure. Closing blinds or curtains during peak daylight hours can keep rooms significantly cooler. If your windows get a lot of direct sun, consider investing in thermal curtains or applying reflective window film. 

Small changes like these can take pressure off your AC and lower your energy bills throughout the summer.

Set Your Ceiling Fans the Right Way

Ceiling fans are a homeowner’s best friend in the warmer months, but only if they’re spinning in the correct direction. 

During the summer, make sure your fans rotate counterclockwise. This setting pushes cool air down and creates a breeze that makes you feel cooler, even if the thermostat doesn’t budge.

If you haven’t used your fans since last summer, give them a quick clean and check for any wobbling or strange noises. 

A dusty or unbalanced fan can be less effective, and more annoying, than one running smoothly.

Give Your Plumbing Some Attention

Summer may seem like an easy time for your home’s plumbing, but that’s not always the case. With kids home from school, guests coming to visit, or an uptick in outdoor water use, your plumbing system may be working harder than you think.

Inspect all your visible pipes and plumbing connections for leaks, especially around sinks, outdoor spigots, and your water heater. 

 

Gloved hands repairing pipe under sink with a wrench.

 

Cracks or loose fittings can cause slow leaks that add up quickly in summer heat. It's also a good idea to flush out your water heater to remove sediment buildup, which can reduce efficiency and lifespan.

Sprinkler systems and garden hoses also deserve a checkup. Look for leaks, cracks, or signs of rust in hose connections, especially if they’ve been in storage since winter. 

Staying on top of maintenance now can help prevent a mid-summer plumbing disaster later.

Don’t Forget the Dryer Vent

One overlooked but essential summer maintenance task is cleaning your dryer vent. Over time, lint buildup in the vent line can reduce your dryer’s efficiency, and, ultimately, increase the risk of fire, especially in hot, dry weather. 

Disconnect the dryer from the wall, clean out the vent tubing, and check the outside exhaust flap to make sure it’s free of obstructions.

Not only will this reduce a potential fire hazard, but it can also shorten drying times and save on your energy bills. This is a win-win, especially during a season when appliances are working overtime.

Take Care of Outdoor Areas

Your home’s exterior takes center stage in summer, so make sure it’s ready to shine. Clean and inspect your deck or patio for any loose boards, nails, or cracks that may have developed over the winter. 

Check your outdoor lighting and electrical outlets to ensure they’re functioning and safe, especially if you’ll be hosting evening gatherings.

If you have a grill, give it a thorough cleaning and inspection before firing it up. 

 

Man pressure-washing tile outside, next to a lush garden.

 

Look over your lawn care equipment as well. Ensure your mower blades are sharp, hoses are leak-free, and any electrical tools are in good working order. 

These small touches make outdoor living more enjoyable and can help you avoid last-minute issues.

Keep Summer Pests Outside

Warm weather often brings unwanted guests—ants, termites, and other pests—into and around your home. The key to preventing infestations is being proactive. 

Start by inspecting the perimeter of your home for entry points. Seal up cracks in the foundation, and make sure door and window screens are intact.

Keep shrubs and tree branches trimmed away from your siding and roof to eliminate bridges for bugs. Inside, be mindful of food waste and storage, especially in the kitchen, pantry, and garage. 

If you notice any signs of infestation—droppings, damage, or visible insects—call a pest control professional sooner rather than later.

Prepare for Pop-Up Storms

While summer is known for sunshine, it’s also prime time for storms in many parts of the country. Flash floods, high winds, and power outages can all cause serious damage if your home isn’t prepared.

Clear out your gutters and downspouts to help rainwater flow away from your foundation. If you have a sump pump, test it by pouring in a bucket of water and making sure it kicks on. 

Look over your roof for missing shingles, and secure or store patio furniture when a storm is expected. These steps can help you avoid bigger problems later.

If your area is prone to outages, consider investing in surge protectors or even a backup generator for essential appliances. And don’t forget to check your home warranty coverage for items such as sump pumps, electrical systems, and refrigerators. They’re all put to the test during summer storms.

Don’t Overlook Your Home Warranty

Summer can strain nearly every system in your home, from your air conditioning unit to your refrigerator and plumbing. That’s why having a reliable home warranty is so important.

America’s Preferred Home Warranty stands out by letting you choose your own licensed contractor for covered repairs. 

That means you can work with someone you trust, without waiting on a random technician to become available. With 24/7 customer support and easy claims processing, APHW makes it simple to protect your home and your wallet.

If you already have a plan, summer is the perfect time to review your coverage and make any updates. And if you don’t, it’s a great season to get started, especially before the heat really hits.

A Cool, Comfortable Summer Starts at Home

Summer should be a time to relax, enjoy your space, and spend time with the people you love. By taking a few proactive steps to summer-proof your home, you can avoid unnecessary headaches and make the most of every sunny day.

With APHW by your side, you’ll have the confidence that if something goes wrong, you’re covered. Now that’s peace of mind worth celebrating.