Get your home and yard summer ready

Summer is here and you’ll want to take advantage of the warm, sunny days with your friends and family. However, your house and yard might need some upgrades after our long winter. Here are a few tricks and tips to prepare your home and yard for the summer, and help you save money in the process.

Purge the storage shed

You’re no longer going to need your snow blower, shovel, or salt now that the warm weather is here! It’s time to bring out your lawnmower, fertilizer, hose, and garden tools. Make sure they’re organized, and easily accessible for your yard’s summer upkeep. Don’t have these items yet? These items are often available secondhand, allowing you to save some money.

Get your yard maintenance on

If you haven’t done so already, get your lawn prepped for summer by raking up any leaves, twigs, and other debris left over from winter. Mow your lawn early and mow often, and trim your trees to get rid of any dead branches that may fall and cause property damage.

Beat the heat

Battle the summer heat and lower your energy output with a few simple airflow tricks. If you have a ceiling fan, turn it counter-clockwise to push air downward and create a stronger draft. Replace your air conditioner filter, or have your central air unit professionally looked at to ensure that everything runs smoothly. A fresh air conditioner filter is more energy-efficient and will save you money on your hydro bill!

Grab your paintbrush

Summer is great time to tackle any DIY projects, home repairs, or renovations. Even something as simple as a fresh coat of paint on your deck, door, trim, or chairs can make your house and yard feel brand new. Check your home for drafts, and repair any you find, because a drafty home lets the cool air escape, increasing your hydro bill! Looking to replace your windows or doors this summer? Invest in energy-efficient windows that will help keep the hot air out, lowering your electricity costs.