July home maintenance

July is heavy use season. Keep the cooling system breathing, watch the water bill for hidden leaks, and give the garage a once-over.

Inside

• Make sure the AC condensate line drains; a clog can overflow into ceilings
• Check the water meter with everything off; if it moves, there's a leak
• Look at the water heater base for rust or moisture

Outside

• Test the garage door auto-reverse with a piece of wood on the floor; it should reverse when it touches
• Lubricate garage door rollers and hinges (not the springs; leave those to a pro)
• Check the driveway and walkway for trip hazards

Cold-winter homes (North, Midwest, mountains)

• Plan exterior painting and roofing for late summer or early fall, when weather is reliable

Warm-climate homes (South, Southwest, coastal California)

• Water lawns early in the morning to cut evaporation
• Watch for roof damage after monsoon storms in the Southwest

General maintenance information. Follow your equipment manuals and local codes, and hire licensed professionals for gas, electrical, roofing and other hazardous work. Home Maintenance Kings isn't paid by any brand or contractor.