It’s coming: Six steps homeowners should take to get ready for Arizona’s summer

Arizona’s summer will be here soon and homeowners should get ready for the sizzles of the season.

Before you take a big step — such as buying a new air conditioner to replace that aging one — here are six things to do now to make your house cooler in June, July and August.

1. Have a whole house energy audit

See if you are losing cooling capacity due to leaks in air ducts as well as air leaks from doors and windows. Have ducts sealed by a professional. Weather-stripping doors and caulking around windows is a do-it-yourself job.

2. Get in the habit of changing air filters

Change once a month on the air intakes for your A/C. We recommend using one-inch pleated filters.

3. Consider adding foam

If you live in a concrete block home, you can consider having a foam insulation injected into your walls. This will not only greatly increase the energy efficiency of your walls, but it will also reduce the dust in your home and outside noise.

4. Get shade on your windows! Plant a

Plant a tree or install shade screens. Blocking direct sun — even partially — will dramatically reduce heat exposure.

5. Clear the area

Remove plants, fallen branches, debris and backyard equipment from around your outdoor compressor for the air conditioner. You want that area free of objects that can block adequate air flow.

6. Get it checked

Have a licensed and insured air conditioning contractor look at your cooling system to ensure that your A/C is in good shape. Whether you’re interested in buying a new A/C or not, a technician can determine if your fan motor is about to die, can repair problems with electrical connections, check your voltage and add refrigerant to your system.

For more DIY tips and information for all the projects around your house, home, castle or cabin, visit Arizona’s largest collection of homeowner DIY advice and information at www.Rosieonthehouse.com.

And if you are in need of a quality contractor you know you can trust, visit our list of Arizona’s very best contractors or service providers for your home improvement projects at RosieontheHouse.com – Arizona’s most trusted referral network.

Tune in to KTAR every Saturday morning from 7-11 a.m. for the Rosie on the House broadcast!