Community ImpactJuly 8, 2016

Top 10 Safe & Healthy Home Tips for Summer

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Summer is finally here. Make adjustments today, so your home stays safe as the temperature rises. Check out our partner Rebuilding Together’s top ten tips to keep your home healthy, when it’s warm outside.

1. Make sure your air conditioning unit is in good working condition.

An image of air conditioning units fans outside during the Summer.

Ensure that the fan is functioning well, the coils are clean, and there isn’t faulty wiring that could cause a fire. Don’t forget to change your filter.

2. Check your windows for drafts.

An image of a home's exterior windows.

Windows should shut properly to maintain temperature control. Check the sealant around indoor and outdoor windows and replace it if necessary.

3. Use fans and ventilation to help cool your home.

An image of a home ceiling fan.

Fans are a good way to keep cool without relying on air conditioning. To conserve energy, ceiling fans should be on the counter-clockwise setting and turned off when you’re not in the room.

4. Change the setting on your water heater.

An image of a home's water heater.

In the summer, help lower your energy bill by turning down your water heater to the warm setting.

5. Avoid using appliances that heat up your home.

An image of a home microwave.

Stovetops and ovens raise the temperature of your house. Use your grill or microwave instead.

6. Change your water filter.

An image of a home water filter.

Staying hydrated is very important in the summer. To ensure that you drink clean, fresh, and mildew-free water, replace your water filtration system.

7. Power wash the outside of your home.

An image of a woman power washing the exterior of her home.

The heat and humidity can cause mold and mildew to grow faster on your home’s exterior. Use a power washer, as well as a mildew remover, compatible with your siding.

8. Check your deck and patio for safety hazards.

An image of an outdoor deck in the summer.

Check for loose boards, railings, and protruding nails in your outdoor spaces.

9. Use your window coverings to help with temperature control.

An image of home window coverings.

Blinds and curtains are a good way to keep sunlight out on hot days. Close them to keep your rooms cooler and energy bills lower.

10. Make a long term investment in insulation.

An image of insulation.

Adding insulation will save you money in the long run. It helps keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Share Your Summer Safe & Healthy Home Tips

We’d love to hear how you are keeping your home safe and healthy this summer. Share your photos on Facebook or Twitter, using #CharterOurCommunity.

This article contains links to other websites and content for informational purposes only. These links do not imply endorsement by Charter Communications of the websites or their operators. Charter is not liable for the content of these linked websites. Your use of the information in this article is entirely at your own risk. Please seek the advice of professionals, as appropriate.