Getting your home ready for summer

Each seasonal change brings new set of challenges to home owners. Summer is no different. Getting ready for summer requires some planning and starting early to get ahead.

• Do a tune-up of your air conditioning system: Best time to do a check-up of the air conditioning system is late spring. Having annual system check-up can add years to your home air conditioning system and save money in the long run. Some estimates that it can save 15 percent each month on your electrical bill. A tune-up could cost $70 to $100. Think of it as maintaining your automobile that can deliver years of trouble free service. A typical check-up include review of functionality of the unit, cleaning of the condenser coil, and any debris cleaning in and around unit. You also need to change air filters twice a year in summer and fall.
• Check doors and windows for leaks and make necessary repairs: Seasonal changes require proofing of windows and doors to prevent heating or cooling leaks. Do a visual inspection of inside and outside of doors and windows. Caulking failures creates gaps causing leaks. Some people do smoke tests to find leaks. But the best way is to get help from a professional.