Cleaning your house from top to bottom is a great way to kick off the summer. Dust and dirt that has accumulated in your rooms throughout the year can be an annoyance once your fans are turned on, and it can also cause problems with your HVAC and other appliances. Thorough dusting and vacuuming are therefore required.

Hopefully, you'll be spending some time outside as well. Your yard may also require a thorough cleaning to remove any cobwebs, dead leaves, or other debris that has accumulated. You should also pay close attention to your home's exterior: both organic (like leaves) and inorganic (like metal) materials can cause discoloration or damage if they come into contact with it.

A pressure washer can be used to clean your driveway, paved yard, or the exterior of your home. Simply use caution when using a power washer to avoid damaging more delicate parts of your home.

Your central air conditioning system is likely to get a lot of use during the summer, so now is a good time to make sure it's all in working order and ready for the hot season. If you have a disposable AC filter that isn't ready to be discarded, you can clean it with a vacuum and rinse (without soap) if necessary. A washable filter can be cleaned with soapy water or a vinegar solution.

You should also check your air conditioner vents and remove any debris that has accumulated, as this can prevent your system from working properly and actually increase your cooling costs. If you experience any technical issues during the season, now is a good time to look for a home warranty that covers your AC system.

In the summer, a pool comes into its own, so make sure it's in good working order. You should check that your pool pump is working properly so that there is adequate water circulation; this will aid in the prevention of dirt buildup. You should also clean out your skimmer baskets and check your filter.

Importantly, you must scoop out any larger debris and scrub the pool's walls, as well as any steps or ladders. You must also ensure that the chemical level is correct (via testing), and you may need to add additional sanitizing chemicals (known as shocking).

Although getting your pool ready for summer can be a lot of work, it's worth it to know you have a clean, safe swimming spot to enjoy with your family.

The hidden parts of your home may not see the light of day very often, but summer is the ideal time to check on what's going on. Mold and mildew can easily grow in dark and damp corners, so inspect your rooms thoroughly and move any boxes or bulky items that may conceal problems.

You should keep an eye out for pests such as mice or wasps, and inspect for any holes or leaks that may have developed over the winter. If your existing home warranty plan includes roof leak coverage, you may be able to file a claim—though most home warranties do not cover pre-existing conditions, so be cautious if you purchase a new one.

Additionally, inspect any plumbing units or pipes that may be hidden in the attic or basement rooms. Your home warranty may also cover leaks or other damage to your plumbing systems, and it's best to find these as soon as possible.

Because your washer and dryer may require maintenance from time to time, why not include them in your summer maintenance plan? It might be time to get a home warranty that covers these appliances, such as Select Home Warranty's Bronze or Platinum plans. If your washer or dryer breaks down, a licensed tradesperson will come to your home to repair it.

Meanwhile, you can clean your lint filter and wipe down the door, and seal your washing machine with a light bleach solution. Let's ensure that your dryer's vents and filters are clean and free of debris. While you're at it, you also can give your refrigerator a thorough cleaning from top to bottom. This is an essential appliance during the summer, so consider including it in your home warranty plan as well.

Pests multiply in the summer, so sealing your home and performing some basic maintenance tasks can keep them out and prevent them from becoming a nuisance. Several things you should do is caulking the edges of windows, filling holes and cracks in your walls, chopping back trees that overhang your home, and keeping your yard clear of debris are all examples of maintenance.

You can also check your yard for any standing water that could attract mosquitoes, and make sure your door and window screens are in good working order. Some home warranties may include pest control coverage, so if this is a major risk in your area, look for a company that includes it in their plan.

Even when the sun is shining, if your windows are covered in a film of dirt, dust, splattered bugs, or water spots, you may not get the most natural light in your home. Washing windows is at the top of the summertime cleaning list to fully enjoy the longer days and lush views of the outdoors.

Windows and doors require special care, and the summer sun will quickly dry them after a good wash. To clean the outside panes, you can use soapy water, a special window spray, or a homemade cleaning solution. You'll also need a microfiber cloth and possibly a squeegee.

You can also take advantage of this time to clean window screens with a vacuum or soapy water, as well as sponge down each side of your doors. You'll be able to enjoy the sun even when you're inside your home once your screens and panes are spotless.

Nothing beats a summer BBQ, so get your grill ready. Charcoal grills should be cleaned of any dust or ash before being washed with soapy water and allowed to air dry.

You can turn on gas grills and leave them to heat for about 30 minutes with the lid down. After cooling, let's sweep the inside with a grill brush, then wipe the outside with cleaning spray and empty any drip trays. Make sure your indoor cooker or stove is clean and in good working order in case your BBQ gets rained out! Most home warranties include the option to include stove maintenance in your plan.