Preparing your home in Columbia for Summer

Prepare for Sizzling Summer Days in Columbia

As the school year winds down and Memorial Day approaches, Columbia residents know that sweltering summer weather is just around the corner. With average highs in the 80s and plenty of humidity, it’s crucial to get your home ready to beat the heat. By taking some simple steps, you can ensure your house stays cool and comfortable all season long while reducing energy costs. Let’s dive into the top tips for summer home prep in Columbia, MO.

Give Your AC a Tuneup

Your air conditioning system will be working overtime in the coming months, so it’s important to have it serviced by a professional HVAC technician. An annual tuneup can identify any potential issues and ensure everything is running at peak efficiency. The technician will clean components, check refrigerant levels, and make any needed repairs. This simple maintenance can extend the life of your AC unit and prevent costly breakdowns on those sweltering 95°F days.

During the tuneup, be sure to ask about upgrading to a programmable thermostat if you don’t already have one. These smart thermostats allow you to easily adjust temperatures when you’re away from home and can reduce energy usage by up to 15%. Many models can even be controlled remotely from your smartphone.

Seal Air Leaks and Check Insulation

As your AC works hard to cool your home, you don’t want that expensively chilled air escaping through cracks and gaps. Carefully inspect windows, doors, attics, and basements for any drafts. Seal leaks with caulk or weatherstripping to keep the cool air inside. While you’re checking for drafts, take a look at your insulation situation as well. Properly insulating your attic can make a huge difference in energy efficiency.

Prep Outdoor Spaces for Entertaining

Summer in CoMo means plenty of backyard barbecues and outdoor gatherings with friends. Get your deck, patio, or porch ready by giving it a good cleaning and making any needed repairs. Clean patio furniture and consider adding a shade solution like an awning, umbrella, or pergola to keep guests comfortable. You may also want to invest in a outdoor misting fan to create a cool, refreshing space to beat the heat.

For your lawn and gardens, be sure to stay on top of mowing, weeding, trimming bushes and trees. Consider planting heat-tolerant flowers, vegetables, or drought-resistant grasses to reduce water needs. Adding a layer of mulch can also help retain moisture in garden beds.

Don’t Overlook Potential Problem Areas

Summer storms can bring heavy rains, hail, and even tornadoes to mid-Missouri, so it’s important to check areas that could be prone to leaks or water damage. Clean out gutters and downspouts to allow rain to flow freely. Inspect your roof for any damaged or missing shingles that should be repaired. And ensure downspouts direct water away from your home’s foundation to prevent basement flooding.

The warmer weather also brings more bugs and critters seeking food and shelter indoors. Seal any cracks or entry points around your home’s exterior. If you notice signs of an infestation, contact a professional pest control company to handle the problem quickly.

Stay Cool and Comfortable All Summer Long

By taking these simple steps to get your Columbia home ready, you can ensure your house stays comfortable and energy-efficient through the dog days of summer. With a tuned-up AC system, sealed air leaks, shaded outdoor spaces, and pest prevention measures in place, you’ll be all set to fully enjoy backyard barbecues, pool days, outdoor concerts, and all your favorite summer activities. Just don’t forget the sunscreen!