Beat the Heat & Brace for Storms:

Your Essential Phoenix Summer Home Maintenance Checklist

☀️ Phoenix summers are no joke. It's hot. It’s dusty. And just when you think the worst is over… here comes the monsoon! 🌩️ That’s why prepping your home isn’t just smart — it’s a must.

This simple summer checklist will help you keep your cool, slash energy bills, avoid costly repairs, and keep your home safe and sound through the Arizona heat and storms.

✅ COOLING: Your A/C is the MVP

🌀 Change Your Air Filters (Monthly):
Dusty filters = higher bills + lower comfort. Check them every month, especially after dust storms.

🛠️ Schedule a Tune-Up (Annually):
A $100 check-up can save you $1,000 in breakdowns later. Do it in spring — before the heat hits!

💧 Clean Coils & Drain Line:
Hose down your outdoor A/C unit. Clear your drain line so it doesn’t overflow. Easy DIY or call a pro.

📱 Use a Smart Thermostat:
Pre-cool your house before peak energy hours (4–7 PM), then raise it when you’re not home. You’ll save BIG.

✅ ENERGY: Seal & Shield

🧱 Check Attic Insulation:
If you can see the ceiling joists, add more. Hot attics = hotter homes.

🔍 Seal Leaks Around Doors & Windows:
Use caulk or weatherstripping. No more cool air sneaking out — or hot air sneaking in.

🪟 Block the Sun:
Use solar screens, blackout curtains, or reflective film on your windows. SRP/APS even offer rebates!

🌬️ Set Ceiling Fans to Spin Counterclockwise:
It makes you feel cooler without lowering the temp. Only use them in rooms you’re in.

✅ WATER: Save It & Use It Smart

💦 Check Irrigation for Leaks:
Fix broken sprayers and leaks. Water early morning or evening — not midday.

🏊‍♂️ Maintain Your Pool Weekly:
Test chemicals, clean out baskets, and keep water at the right level. Use a cover to stop evaporation.

🚰 Inspect Plumbing (Inside & Out):
Look for drips under sinks and outside faucets. Fix fast to avoid water damage and high bills.

✅ EXTERIOR: Get Monsoon-Ready

🏠 Inspect Your Roof:
Use binoculars. Look for missing tiles or cracked shingles. Hire a roofer if needed.

🧹 Clean Gutters (Before Monsoon):
Remove debris so water flows away from your home. Prevents roof leaks and flooding.

🧽 Check Caulking & Paint:
Sun ruins paint and sealants. Touch up cracked areas to keep your home sealed tight.

🌳 Trim Trees:
Cut branches away from your house and roof. Don’t let a storm send one crashing down.

✅ PEST PATROL: Keep Critters Out

🦂 Know the Usual Suspects:
Scorpions, ants, roaches, and mosquitoes love summer. Don’t let them love your home too.

🧱 Seal Up Cracks & Gaps:
Same steps as sealing for energy — double win!

🌿 Clear Debris & Standing Water:
Mosquitoes breed in water. Scorpions hide in wood piles. Keep your yard clean and dry.

🍽️ Keep Kitchens Clean:
Store food in sealed containers. Take out the trash often. No crumbs = no bugs.

✅ MONSOON PREP: Safety First

🪑 Tie Down or Bring In Outdoor Items:
High winds = flying furniture. Don’t let your grill hit your neighbor’s window.

🌧️ Check Grading & Drainage:
Make sure water flows away from your home. Use sandbags if needed.

🚨 Emergency Kit Ready?
Water, flashlights, snacks, radio, meds. Check it now — before the storms come.

✅ BONUS: Leaving Town This Summer?

If you’re heading out of Phoenix for a while (hello, snowbirds!), don’t just lock the door and leave:

• Turn off main water and gas.

• Empty the fridge or fill with water bottles.

• Unplug electronics.

• Set your A/C to 85–90°F or off.

• Ask a neighbor to check in after storms.