With summer on its way, now’s the time to make changes to your home and get ahead on things so you can enjoy the warmth. Here’s a list of things you can do to get your home ready for summer:

1. Service Air Conditioner: Air conditioners need maintenance just like any other home appliance, so be sure to get it serviced before the heat starts to pick up. Make sure to change the filter and test to see if the air conditioner is working properly. If it is damaged, better to get it fixed now than in the middle of a heatwave.

2. Inspect Your Roof: Winter can cause some damage and minor cracks to your roof, so it’s a good idea to give your roof a quick look and to stay on top of any repairs needed. It’ll save you a lot of trouble in the long run.

3. Prevent Water Damage: The winter thaw can cause a lot of problems and lead to wood rot and other damages. Be sure to inspect vulnerable areas of your house, like the foundations, and do any necessary repairs.

4. Prepare the Grill: The summer’s a great time for some barbecue, so make sure your grill is in working order to make the most of this time. Clean the grill if you haven’t already, and make sure the burners are in good condition if you’re using a gas grill. Cleaning your grill also helps prevent rodent infestations.

5. Check Out Your Irrigation System: The cold months of winter can lead to cracks or bursts in your hoses and sprinklers, so turn them on and see if everything is in working order. If they aren’t functioning correctly, you may have to get your irrigation system fixed.

6. Maintain Your Window Screens: It’s a good idea to wash your window screens every so often, especially before summer. Not only that but be sure to be on the lookout for any damage and to get it replaced if there are holes. Don’t want bugs getting in after all.

7. Get Rid of Still Water: Mosquitos tend to breed and lay eggs on still water, so for a mosquito-free summer, get rid of any sources of still water you can find around your home.

8. Inspect The Attic: Rodents and other bugs love to hide away in attics, so be sure to clean and dust it before summer is fully underway. This also gives you the chance to fix any cracks in the walls rodents might use. If you do have an infestation learn how to tell the difference between a rat vs mouse so you can handle it correctly, or call your local exterminator.

9. Move Your Garbage Cans: Though it’s convenient to step right outside the front door when disposing of garbage in the winter, having your garbage cans so close is a bad idea in the summer. Insects and rodents are attracted to it and might decide to take the short route to the inside of your home. To prevent this, move your garbage cans further away.

10. Trim Your Garden: Trimming your garden not only helps make it look more appealing but also provides less hiding space and means of getting into your house for pests. Learn more about preventing pests this summer at the pest education network.

There you have it. The Top 10 ways to get your home ready for summer so you can have a relaxing time.