--- title: "Lexington Homeowners Advised on Comprehensive Summer Maintenance" url: https://www.herelexington.com/2026/08/05/lexington-homeowners-advised-comprehensive/ date: 2026-08-05T09:48:17+00:00 modified: 2026-08-05T09:48:17+00:00 author: "Francis Robinson" categories: ["Home and Garden"] site: "HERE Lexington" attribution: "HERE Lexington" --- # Lexington Homeowners Advised on Comprehensive Summer Maintenance *Source: [HERE Lexington](https://www.herelexington.com/2026/08/05/lexington-homeowners-advised-comprehensive/) — August 5, 2026 by Francis Robinson* As the summer season progresses, a comprehensive home maintenance checklist offers Lexington homeowners a guide to preserving their properties, ensuring efficiency, and addressing potential issues before they escalate. The recommendations cover a broad spectrum of tasks, from indoor air quality and plumbing to exterior structural integrity, landscaping, pool care, and the value of professional inspections. ### Indoor Comfort and Efficiency Maintaining indoor systems is crucial for comfort and energy efficiency during the summer. A primary recommendation involves changing air-conditioning filters at least every 90 days, or monthly for households with allergy sufferers. This practice significantly improves air quality and allows HVAC systems to operate more efficiently, reducing strain and energy consumption. Beyond filters, cleaning vents, air ducts, and exhaust fans helps maintain optimal airflow and prevents the accumulation of dust and allergens throughout the home. Ceiling fans, often overlooked, can contribute to cooling when reversed to a counterclockwise rotation, pushing cool air down. Transitioning from heavier winter bedding to lighter linen or cotton materials also enhances comfort. Homeowners are advised to check window treatments, ensuring they are effective at blocking sunlight and reducing heat gain. Medium-colored drapes with white plastic backing, for instance, can reduce heat gains by up to 33 percent, contributing to lower cooling costs. Plumbing fixtures should be inspected for any leaks, which can lead to water damage and increased utility bills. Cleaning refrigerator and freezer coils improves appliance efficiency and extends their lifespan. Annually, the dryer vent should be vacuumed to prevent lint buildup, a common cause of house fires. Finally, damp areas within the home, such as basements or bathrooms, warrant a check for mold growth, which can impact indoor air quality and structural integrity. ### Exterior Upkeep and Protection The exterior of a home in Lexington faces direct exposure to summer elements, making regular maintenance essential for curb appeal and structural protection. The checklist suggests inspecting siding for damage, followed by power-washing to remove dirt and mildew. Touching up exterior paint not only refreshes the home’s appearance but also protects surfaces from weather-related wear. Windows should be washed and weatherproofed to prevent drafts and moisture intrusion. Clean gutters are vital for proper water drainage, preventing water from pooling around the foundation, which can lead to costly damage. Speaking of foundations, homeowners are urged to check for cracks and leaks. Foundation cracks can contribute to flooding during heavy rains and can also allow higher levels of radon gas to enter the home, posing health risks. Servicing the AC unit professionally ensures it runs efficiently throughout the hot months. Outdoor furniture should be cleaned and prepared for use, and patios or decks may require resealing to protect them from sun and moisture. Repairing cracks in driveways and walkways prevents further deterioration and improves safety. Fencing should be inspected for any needed repairs, and any paint, chemicals, or solvents stored in hot garages should be relocated to a stable, moderate-temperature environment to prevent degradation or hazards. ### Landscaping and Pest Management Summer landscaping tasks are crucial for maintaining a healthy and attractive yard. This includes removing any plants or debris damaged during the winter. Mowing and edging should be done with the mower set to its highest setting, which encourages deeper root growth and helps the lawn retain moisture. Watering plants every three to four days is generally sufficient, though more frequent watering may be necessary during heat waves. Sprinklers should be adjusted to provide 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, ideally applied at dawn to minimize evaporation. Pruning plants and shrubs promotes healthy growth and maintains their shape. Regular weeding prevents competition for nutrients and water, while deadheading flowers encourages continuous blooming. Beyond plant care, homeowners should inspect their properties for common summer pests such as termites, mosquitoes, ants, and silverfish. Early detection and intervention can prevent infestations that might otherwise cause significant damage or discomfort. ### Pool Opening and Maintenance For homes with pools, the checklist provides a detailed guide for opening when outside temperatures consistently exceed 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. The process begins with removing and storing the pool cover, followed by cleaning the surrounding deck. Winter guards and plugs must be removed, and filters, skimmers, pumps, and drains should be cleared and thoroughly cleaned. After reinstalling accessories, the pool should be filled to the middle of the skimmer. Preparing the pump, filter, and heater, and then turning on the pump, initiates circulation. Initial cleaning involves removing debris, vacuuming, and scrubbing the pool surfaces. The next critical step is adding opening chemicals and pool shock. Water chemistry then requires careful attention: testing and balancing pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, cyanuric acid, and chlorine levels. After running the pool for 24 hours, the water should be retested, and additional chemicals added as needed to achieve optimal balance, ensuring a safe and clean swimming environment. ### Professional Inspections for Peace of Mind While many tasks can be handled by homeowners, certain inspections are best left to professionals. A professional home inspection, which costs about $350 on average (ranging from $300 to $425), can provide a thorough evaluation of major appliances, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC systems, and the foundation. These inspections can identify hidden issues that might not be apparent to the untrained eye, offering a detailed assessment of the home’s condition. Similarly, an HVAC tune-up, typically costing $75 to $200, ensures that heating and cooling systems are running efficiently and safely. These professional services can prevent costly breakdowns, extend the life of major systems, and provide peace of mind for homeowners in Lexington. ### Why it matters in Lexington Diligent home maintenance during the summer months is a critical investment for property owners across Lexington. With local employers like Lowe’s and The Home Depot providing essential supplies and services, residents have readily available resources to tackle these tasks. Proactive upkeep not only safeguards property values in neighborhoods such as Saluda River Club and Governors Grant but also contributes to the overall safety and comfort of families. Addressing issues like foundation cracks or uncleaned dryer vents can prevent significant financial burdens and potential hazards, ensuring that homes throughout Lexington County remain secure and efficient for years to come.