10 Things to Do Every Summer to Keep the House Running Smoother

Summer has its own rhythm, and if you stay ahead of the little stuff, your home will run smoother through the heat, humidity, and all the extra activity that comes with the season. It’s easier to keep things in check when you make certain habits part of your yearly routine.

These are the things worth tackling every summer—they don’t take much, but they’ll save you from bigger headaches down the road.

Flush the Water Heater

Sediment builds up over time, especially if you’ve got hard water. Summer’s a good time to drain and flush your water heater so it runs more efficiently and lasts longer. It also helps prevent that popping or rumbling sound you might’ve heard.

You don’t need to call anyone out unless it’s overdue or giving you trouble. For most units, it’s a quick drain from the bottom valve. Knock it out once a year and your water heater won’t have to work as hard.

Clean the Dryer Vent

Lint doesn’t just build up in the lint trap—it also clogs up the dryer vent over time. That makes your dryer less efficient and raises the risk of a fire. Summer’s a great time to clean it out since you can access the outside vent without freezing.

You can use a vent cleaning brush kit or even a vacuum attachment. While you’re at it, check that the flap outside is opening freely and not stuck shut from lint, debris, or nesting bugs.

Check for Cracks Around Doors and Windows

Hot air sneaks in through small cracks, and cooled air escapes. Even if your house feels fine, those gaps drive up energy bills and make your AC work harder than it should. Summer is the time to reseal before that heat really builds.

Walk around with a fresh tube of caulk and some weatherstripping. Check spots where old sealant has cracked or pulled away, especially around south-facing windows. It doesn’t take long and it makes a real difference.

Deep Clean Ceiling Fans and Vents

Ceiling fans work overtime in the summer, but they collect dust fast. Same goes for return vents and AC registers. If they’re dirty, the air circulating in your home won’t be as clean or efficient.

Wipe down the blades, vacuum the vents, and check that nothing’s blocking airflow. It’s a good time to make sure your fan is rotating counterclockwise too—that pushes cool air down and helps the room feel more comfortable.

Test Your Smoke and CO Detectors

These need to work all year, but summer’s a smart time to test them—especially if your windows are closed most of the time and you’re running appliances more. It’s also when many people are grilling, using fire pits, or taking vacations.

Hit the test button on every unit and replace batteries if needed. If yours are hardwired, still check to make sure they’re responsive. It’s one of those five-minute tasks that could save your life.

Clear Gutters and Check Drainage

Summer storms can hit hard and fast, and clogged gutters only make things worse. Water that backs up can damage your siding, foundation, or roofline. That’s a mess you don’t want to deal with during peak heat.

Clean out the gutters and make sure downspouts are clear and draining several feet away from the house. If water is pooling near the foundation, consider extending the spouts or adding splash blocks to direct it farther out.

Wash Exterior Windows

Pollen, dust, and bugs build up fast during spring, and by summer, your windows probably aren’t as clear as they should be. A quick wash—inside and out—makes a bigger difference than you’d think.

Use a hose, a soft brush, and a bucket of soapy water, or pick up a squeegee tool made for glass. While you’re at it, check the screens for holes or loose edges and patch them before bugs start sneaking in.

Trim Back Trees Near the House

Overhanging branches can scrape the roof, block airflow, and drop leaves into your gutters all summer long. They also give squirrels and raccoons easier access to the attic if you’re not careful.

Trim branches at least a few feet away from your house, especially near the roofline or AC unit. While you’re up there, keep an eye out for signs of damage or pest activity that might need more attention.

Spray for Ants and Other Pests

Summer is when ants, spiders, wasps, and roaches really pick up. You don’t always see them until they’ve moved in. A little prevention goes a long way here.

Use perimeter spray along the base of your house, around doors and windows, and near any patio furniture or outdoor kitchen setups. If you’ve had issues before, hit those spots early and repeat monthly.

Check the Attic and Crawlspace

These are easy to ignore but critical in the summer. Hot air builds in the attic and can mess with your whole cooling system. Meanwhile, your crawlspace can collect humidity and invite mold or pests.

Pop your head in both and check for anything unusual—moisture, smells, insulation issues, or signs of critters. If you’ve got fans or vents in those spaces, make sure they’re working like they should.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.