Plano, Texas, is famous for its neighborhoods, lush lawns, and the kind of summer heat that makes you wish your AC could run on sweet tea. As the mercury climbs and the days stretch out, May and June are the perfect months to whip your home into shape before the real Texas heat arrives. Here’s your witty, practical guide to the top home maintenance tasks every Plano homeowner should tackle right now.
1. Give Your Air Conditioner Some TLC
Plano summers are not for the faint of heart. Before the heatwaves hit, schedule a professional tune-up for your air conditioning system. A well-maintained AC runs more efficiently, keeps your home cooler, and saves you money on energy bills. Don’t forget to replace or clean your filters monthly, especially if you have pets or allergies. While you’re at it, clear away any weeds or grass growing around the outdoor HVAC unit to keep airflow strong and steady.
2. Spruce Up Your Lawn and Landscape
Plano yards are a point of pride, and spring is the time to get them in tip-top shape. Start by cleaning up any leftover winter debris, raking leaves, and removing dead branches. Prune trees and shrubs to encourage healthy growth and keep them from brushing against your roof. Fertilize your lawn to promote lush, green grass, and set your mower blades higher to help shade the soil and prevent weeds.
Check your sprinkler system for leaks or broken heads. A quick test run now can save you from a patchy lawn later. Water early in the morning to beat evaporation and keep your grass hydrated without wasting water. Plano’s watering restrictions can change, so check the city’s guidelines before you set your timer.
3. Power Wash and Inspect Your Home’s Exterior
Winter can leave your siding, walkways, and patio looking a little worse for wear. Grab a power washer and give those surfaces a deep clean. As you wash, keep an eye out for cracks in the siding, foundation, or walkways. Spotting and repairing these early can prevent bigger headaches down the road.
Check your gutters for leaves and debris. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and attract pests. Make sure downspouts are directing water away from your foundation.
4. Deck and Patio Checkup
Plano patios are made for summer BBQs and evening hangouts. Inspect your deck or patio for loose boards, protruding nails, or signs of rot. Sand down any rough spots and apply a fresh coat of stain or sealant to protect the wood from sun and rain. If you have outdoor furniture, give it a good cleaning and check for any repairs needed before the first cookout of the season.
5. Pool Prep: Ready, Set, Swim
If you’re lucky enough to have a pool, May is the month to get it sparkling. Remove the cover, skim out debris, and check for algae growth or cloudy water. Test and balance the chemicals, inspect the pump and filter, and schedule any needed repairs now, before the summer pool party rush. Consider upgrading to energy-efficient pool equipment to save on utility bills and keep your pool running smoothly all season.
6. Inside the Home: Spring Cleaning With a Purpose
Spring cleaning isn’t just about dusting. Focus on areas that often get overlooked: baseboards, blinds, ceiling fans, and behind appliances. Clean out your dryer vent to reduce fire risk and improve efficiency. Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and test your fire extinguishers.
Inspect caulking and weather stripping around windows and doors. Keeping these in good shape means your cool air stays inside, and the hot Plano air stays out. This small step can make a noticeable difference in your comfort and energy bills.
7. Plumbing and Water Heater Check
Inspect all faucets, toilets, and exposed pipes for leaks. A dripping faucet can waste gallons of water and drive up your bill. Flush your water heater to remove sediment buildup, which helps it run more efficiently and last longer.
8. Pest Patrol
Plano’s warm weather is great for barbecues—and bugs. Walk around your home and yard to look for signs of ants, termites, or rodents. Remove standing water and piles of leaves, which can attract pests. Seal any holes or gaps in your siding or foundation to keep critters outside where they belong.
9. Safety First
Check your roof for missing or damaged shingles, especially after spring storms. Look for signs of water stains on ceilings or walls inside your home, which could indicate a leak. If you spot anything suspicious, call a professional for a closer look.
10. Organize and Declutter
May and June are perfect for clearing out the garage, attic, or closets. Donate or toss anything you no longer use. A clutter-free home is easier to maintain and just feels better.
Plano’s Secret to a Happy Home
Plano homeowners know that a little maintenance now means more time to relax later. With these tasks checked off, you’ll be ready to enjoy everything Plano has to offer, from sunny afternoons in the park to cool evenings on your patio. Tackle these chores with a smile, and your home will be the envy of the block, no matter how high the Texas sun climbs.
For a complete home maintenance checklist for every season, check out trusted resources like Better Homes & Gardens and Universal Property. Stay ahead of the game, Plano!
Sources: bhg.com, universalproperty.com
Header Image Source: Roselyn Tirado on Unsplash
