As winter fades and spring emerges in the Greater Philadelphia area, it’s time to refresh our homes inside and out. This guide outlines over 30 essential spring cleaning and maintenance tasks specifically tailored for our area’s homeowners. From tackling winter debris to preparing for the unique seasonal challenges of the region, these tasks will help you maintain your property value while creating a healthier, more comfortable living environment.

Outdoor Cleanup: Reviving Your Property After Winter

Philadelphia’s winters can be particularly harsh on home exteriors, with freezing temperatures, snow, and ice taking their toll. A thorough spring cleanup is essential to prevent long-term damage and prepare for the warmer months ahead.

Clear Debris from Gutters and Downspouts: Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent water damage. For homes with many trees, install gutter guards. Check for loose or damaged gutter sections from winter weather.

Power Wash Exterior Surfaces: Power wash siding, brick, decks, and driveways to remove winter grime. Clean front stoops and entryways facing busy streets.

Inspect Roof for Winter Damage: Inspect roof for missing/damaged shingles, flashing issues, and ice dam damage. Check for pooling water on flat roofs. Document any issues for insurance.

Lawn and Garden Preparation

Spring in the Philadelphia region brings ideal conditions for garden revival and landscape preparation. With the city’s growing season typically beginning in early April, now is the critical time to prepare outdoor spaces.

Rake Leftover Leaves and Remove Dead Plants: Rake yards to remove leaves and debris that can harbor pests and diseases. Cut back damaged perennials to encourage new growth, especially near parks where invasives can spread.

Prune Trees and Shrubs: Prune flowering trees and shrubs before spring growth. Remove dead/damaged branches. Prune fruit trees for shape and productivity. Check with Parks & Rec for street tree pruning permits.

Test Soil and Prepare Garden Beds for Planting: Conduct a soil test to determine needs. Amend soil with compost, lime or sulfur. For veggies, consider raised beds. Apply mulch to suppress weeds and conserve moisture, but avoid piling against plants.

HVAC System Maintenance

Philadelphia’s climate demands efficient heating and cooling systems, with temperatures ranging from below freezing in winter to hot and humid in summer. Spring is the ideal time to transition your HVAC system from heating to cooling mode.

Replace Air Filters: Replace standard filters or clean reusable ones to improve air quality and system efficiency. For homes in high-traffic areas like those near I-76 or I-95, consider upgrading to MERV 11 or higher filters to capture more airborne particles.

Schedule Professional HVAC System Tune-Up: Before summer humidity hits the Delaware Valley, schedule a professional inspection of your air conditioning system. If your system is older than 15 years—common in many of the area’s historic neighborhoods—discuss replacement options that might qualify for energy efficiency rebates through PECO or PGW.

Clean Air Vents and Ducts: Remove and wash vent covers, vacuum visible dust from ducts, and consider professional duct cleaning if it hasn’t been done in several years. Clean vents will improve air quality and help those suffering from seasonal allergies, which can be particularly severe in the Philadelphia region due to the abundance of trees and plants.

Interior Deep Cleaning

After a long winter spent mostly indoors, Philadelphia homes need thorough interior cleaning to remove accumulated dust, allergens, and winter grime. Spring cleaning isn’t just tradition—it’s necessary for maintaining a healthy home environment as pollen season approaches.

Dust and Clean Ceiling Fans and Light Fixtures: Remove glass components for washing. Check for any wiring or connection issues. Set ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise in summer.

Wash Windows and Screens: Clean windows inside and out using a vinegar-water solution or commercial cleaner. Remove and wash screens. For historic homes, avoid ammonia-based cleaners. Thoroughly clean windowsills and tracks to prevent mold.

Deep Clean Carpets and Upholstery: Thoroughly clean carpets and upholstered furniture. For rugs, beat and air them out. For wall-to-wall, rent a steam cleaner or hire professionals, focusing on high-traffic areas. Vacuum upholstery and use appropriate cleaners. Schedule this task for early May, after pollen but before humid summer.

Don’t forget baseboards, molding, and door frames!!

Kitchen and Appliance Care

The kitchen typically requires the most intensive spring cleaning effort in any home. From appliances that have worked overtime during winter cooking to storage areas that may harbor pests, a thorough approach ensures this essential space is both clean and functional.

Clean and Organize Refrigerator and Pantry: Deep clean refrigerator, checking for expired items and mold. Inspect pantry for signs of pests, and store food in sealed containers.

Descale Coffee Maker and Clean Small Appliances: Descale coffee makers and kettles using vinegar. Clean toaster trays, microwaves, and blender gaskets. Vacuum refrigerator coils to improve efficiency.

Deep Clean Oven and Range Hood: Preparing winter comfort food often leaves ovens and range hoods greasy and dirty.

• Run the oven’s self-cleaning cycle or use oven cleaner for manual cleaning
• Remove and soak oven racks in the bathtub with dishwasher detergent
• Clean stovetop thoroughly, removing burner grates if applicable
• Remove and clean or replace range hood filters

Clean Under and Behind Appliances: These hard-to-reach areas collect significant dust and can harbor pests.

• Pull refrigerator away from wall and vacuum coils and floor beneath
• Clean under oven drawer and behind the unit if accessible
• Wipe down sides of appliances that face walls or cabinets
• Check for any water leaks or pest evidence while appliances are moved

Address Drains and Disposals: Plumbing systems benefit from regular maintenance to prevent summer clogs.

• Clean garbage disposal with ice, salt, and citrus peels
• Pour boiling water down drains to clear minor grease buildup
• Check for slow drainage and address before summer heat intensifies odors
• Consider a professional drain cleaning for older homes with recurring issues

Bathroom Refresh

Philadelphia’s humid climate presents unique challenges for bathroom maintenance, with moisture issues being particularly problematic in the older homes. A thorough spring cleaning prevents mold growth and ensures these essential spaces remain sanitary and functional.

Scrub Grout and Caulk Lines: Check bathroom grout and caulking for cracks. Clean grout with oxygen bleach. Replace damaged caulk. Address mold with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide.

Declutter and Organize Cabinets and Drawers: Declutter the bathroom, check expiration dates, clean shelves, and organize storage to maximize space. Properly dispose of old medications at a drug take-back location.

Replace Shower Curtain Liner if Needed: Replace shower curtain liners regularly to prevent mold. Measure carefully for custom fits. Consider mildew-resistant liners with weights to contain water.

Home Safety Check

Spring safety checks are essential for homeowners, from fire safety to emergency preparedness, these tasks protect your family and property.

Test and Replace Batteries in Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Test all detectors by pressing the test button and replace any that don’t respond. Install fresh batteries in battery-operated units, even if they seem to be working. Carbon monoxide detectors are particularly important in homes with gas appliances or heating systems.

Inspect Fire Extinguishers: Fire extinguishers should be inspected monthly and professionally serviced annually. Check that pressure gauges show proper pressure (the needle should be in the green zone) and that the pin and tamper seal are intact. Inspect the hose and nozzle for cracks or clogs, and make sure the extinguisher hasn’t passed its expiration date.

Review and Update Emergency Preparedness Kit: Update your emergency kit with fresh supplies: bottled water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days), non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, and a first aid kit. Include copies of important documents in waterproof containers and some cash in small denominations.

Energy Efficiency Improvements

Spring is the ideal time for homeowners to address energy efficiency before summer cooling costs begin to rise, though approaches may vary based on building age and style.

Check for Air Leaks Around Windows and Doors: Inspect older home windows for air leaks. Seal gaps around frames, outlets, and baseboards. Maintain weatherization in historic properties.

Install Weatherstripping Where Needed: Seal air leaks around doors and windows with weatherstripping. Choose durable materials like silicone or rubber. Focus on attic hatches and basement doors. Preserve historic windows with removable options.

Consider Upgrading to Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs: Upgrade to energy-efficient LED bulbs in your home. Look for PECO rebates to save on bulk replacements.

Average Heating/Cooling Savings: Potential reduction in energy costs up to 15% after properly sealing leaks around windows and doors in typical Philadelphia homes

Energy Reduction: Less electricity used by LED bulbs compared to traditional incandescent lighting while providing the same illumination.

Annual Savings: $115 average yearly utility bill reduction up to for Philadelphia homeowners after implementing basic weatherization measures.

Schedule a professional home energy audit to identify larger efficiency upgrades. Philly offers rebates and assistance programs for income-qualified residents.

Preparing for Philadelphia’s Spring and Summer

As the Delaware Valley transitions from winter to the warmer months, the Philadelphia region faces unique seasonal challenges. From the humidity that blankets the region in summer to the region’s abundant pests, proper preparation ensures comfort and prevents potential problems.

Store Winter Gear and Bring Out Warm-Weather Essentials: Clean and store winter gear. Inspect and maintain summer equipment like AC units and patio furniture.

Check Outdoor Furniture and Equipment for Repairs: Inspect outdoor furnishings and equipment for winter damage. Clean and repair as needed. Test irrigation systems and outdoor spigots.

Plan for Pest Control Measures Typical to the Philadelphia Area: Before insects become problematic, implement preventative measures tailored to local conditions.

• Address Mosquito Breeding Grounds: Philadelphia’s combination of rivers, streams, and urban water collection points creates ideal mosquito breeding conditions. Eliminate standing water in gutters, flower pots, trash cans, and yard depressions. 
• Prevent Spider and Insect Entry: Seal cracks in foundations and gaps around utility entrances. Apply appropriate perimeter treatments and consider professional pest inspections.
• Monitor for Spotted Lanternfly: This invasive pest continues to threaten the Philadelphia region. Inspect trees, particularly Tree of Heaven, for egg masses and report sightings to agricultural authorities. Remove egg masses when found by scraping them into alcohol or hand sanitizer.

Finally, take time to map out your spring and summer maintenance schedule. Philadelphia’s climate pattern typically includes a rainy spring followed by hot, humid summers with occasional severe thunderstorms. Planning regular gutter cleanings after spring pollen season and scheduling HVAC maintenance before the first heat wave arrives can prevent emergency repairs during the most uncomfortable weather. By implementing these preparations, your home will be ready to provide comfort and enjoyment throughout the warmer seasons ahead.