Summer-Ready: 10 Steps to Prepare Your Property for the Heat!

As summer approaches, it's time to get your property ready for the sunny days and hot nights ahead. Here’s a practical checklist to help you prepare your home for the unique challenges and opportunities the season brings.

1. Shade Solutions

Install or check outdoor shade options like awnings, umbrellas, or shade sails. Consider planting fast-growing trees or installing outdoor blinds to protect living areas from the harsh summer sun.

2. Outdoor Entertaining Upgrades

Make your outdoor spaces summer-ready by setting up cooling solutions like misting fans or portable air coolers. Clean outdoor furniture, inspect BBQs for safety and functionality, and add outdoor lighting for evening gatherings.

3. Pest-Proof Your Property

Summer is prime time for insects and pests. Seal gaps around windows and doors, clean outdoor areas to deter nesting, and consider citronella candles or pest-repellent plants like lavender and marigold.

4. Monitor Water Usage

Inspect your irrigation system for leaks and adjust timers for early morning or late evening watering to minimise evaporation. Set up rainwater tanks or consider greywater recycling for eco-friendly garden care.

5. Pool Maintenance

If you have a pool, check its filtration system, ensure chemical levels are balanced, and clean any debris. Pool covers can reduce evaporation and help keep the water cool.

6. Prepare for Extreme Heat

Stock up on blackout curtains or reflective window films to block out the heat. Check ceiling and wall insulation to keep your home cool efficiently, reducing reliance on air conditioning.

7. Storm and Fire Safety

Summer storms can be sudden and severe. Check stormwater drains and downpipes for blockages. For bushfire-prone areas, clear gutters of debris, trim overhanging branches, and create a firebreak around your property.

8. Energy Efficiency Audit

Review your energy consumption to avoid skyrocketing bills. Switch to LED bulbs, set air conditioners to an optimal temperature (around 24°C), and use timers or smart devices to manage energy use.

9. Stock Emergency Supplies

Keep a summer survival kit with essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, first aid supplies and portable fans for unexpected heatwaves. Also make sure you have candles and torches (with batteries) in readiness for any dreaded blackout's

10. Bushfire Preparedness

If you live in a bushfire-prone area, have a fire safety plan in place. Clear dry vegetation around your home, ensure hoses are long enough to reach all areas of your property, and know your local fire danger rating system. Stay updated on emergency alerts and have an evacuation plan ready to protect your family and pets.

By tackling this checklist early, you’ll ensure your property is comfortable, safe, and ready for all the fun and relaxation summer has to offer.