Shape Up Your Home for Summer

May 31, 2007 — -- Your body isn't the only thing that needs to get in shape for summer — so does your house. Follow these tips from "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition's" Page Hemmis to save your abode from warm weather stresses while it nets you summer savings.

Change air conditioner filters at least every six months.

Any debris on an air filter means the air conditioner has to work 10 times harder to get the air through, which translates to a higher energy bill. If you live in a place with a lot of dust or pollen, you may need to change it every three months, or if someone is a smoker, or if you live near a freeway. To determine whether it's time to change the filter, look at the screen; if you can still see some of the original material, the filter is fine.

Check your washing machine's water hoses for cracks and bubbles.

Washing machines that are not properly maintained can become flooding hazards. Hoses cost about $12, but a burst one can cost as much as $30,000 in water damage. Check the water hoses connected to your washing machine for any cracks or bubbles. You can look for them, but be sure to touch the hose and feel for them, too.

Check your dryer vents.

To check your clothes dryer, clean inside and behind the exit vents — a common place for fires to start. Make sure there are no socks, towels or other debris behind the vents. A dryer vent that's cracked should be replaced by a professional.

Clean out your rain gutter spouts.

Cleaning gutters is important to avoid flooding and to prevent mold from growing. Without proper drainage, puddles can cause damage to the roof and to a home's foundation.

Change your smoke detector battery every six months.

The price of a 9-volt battery could save you hundreds of thousands of dollars and your life.