There’s nothing like longer evenings, blossoms and sunshine to inject a little new-season pep in your step. You’ve survived the winter grind and long summer days are on the horizon.
But is your home ready for the change of season? Here are seven things you can tick off your list in preparation for summer.
1. Service your heat pump
Chances are your heat pump has been working overtime this winter, and soon you will want to power up the air con. Regular maintenance and servicing are critical for the efficiency of your unit – in fact if you don’t remove airborne dirt and dust your power consumption could skyrocket by up to 35%. Heat pumps and air conditioners need to be serviced annually to ensure peak performance.
2. Wash your house exterior
Over winter your house exterior can accumulate dirt, mould and algae, which not only reduces kerb appeal, but can also degrade surfaces over time. But before you strap on a water blaster, know that high pressure cleaning can damage wood and painted surfaces. We recommend low pressure soft washing for a deep but gentle exterior clean.
3. Clean gutters and downpipes
Gutters and downpipes are your home’s silent guardians, directing rainwater away from your roof and foundations. If they get clogged with debris from a wild winter they can become a hotspot for leaks and mould. Gutter cleaning is a task best left to the professionals who will remove all the organic matter from your gutters and downpipes and ensure there is no chance of flooding.
4. Get on top of garden maintenance
Now that outdoor entertaining is back on the menu, tidying up the garden is another new season priority. This means chores like weeding, mulching, removing dead plants, pruning shrubs and raking up leaves. Plus, you’ll also want to show your lawns some love. If you are short on time, call the experts who can take care of all your lawn and garden maintenance needs, from trimming to rubbish removal.
5. Freshen up your carpets
Winter is the season of mud, so it’s not surprising if your carpets look a little worse for wear at the end of the cold and wet months. Spruce up your floor coverings for spring with a carpet deep clean, make your hard flooring shine or breathe new life into your upholstery when you book a professional cleaning service.
6. Don’t ignore leaks
Have you noticed any leaks over winter? Whether it’s a dripping tap, a mysterious puddle under the sink, or water stains on the ceiling, don’t bury your head in the sand. Small issues can have big consequences, like costly water damage or mould issues. Inspect under sinks, around windows, behind toilets and on ceilings for signs of moisture and book a plumber or home handyperson to tackle anything repair-related.
7. Install new electrics
The new season is also the perfect time to update your home’s electrical set up, whether that’s installing a new appliance, integrating smart home features or replacing outdated light fixtures. You can also get ready for summer with some outdoor illumination, like festoon or garden lighting. Remember, when it comes to all things electrical, safety is key, so book a qualified electrician for peace of mind.
AA Home can help you with all of these services and more.
Head to aa.co.nz/home-services to book a job online with our AA-trusted trade professionals.