May isn’t just about barbecues and bluebonnets — it’s National Home Improvement Month! At 72 Degrees Texas, we know what it takes to keep Hill Country homes and short-term rentals running smoothly, especially before the Texas summer kicks into high gear. As your trusted local experts in plumbing, HVAC, and electrical services, we’ve helped homeowners and landlords across Fredericksburg, Kerrville, and the surrounding areas stay ahead of costly repairs and surprise breakdowns.
Whether you’re prepping your own home or getting your rental properties ready for a busy tourist season, now’s the perfect time to tackle essential maintenance — and with 72 Degrees Texas on your side, you can head into summer with confidence.
What’s National Home Improvement Month?
Created by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), National Home Improvement Month is your reminder to get proactive with home maintenance. Think of May as the pregame for summer — the perfect window to prep your property, avoid costly surprises, and boost comfort and value.
Why Maintenance Pays Off (Big Time)
Preventive maintenance isn’t just about avoiding disasters — it’s about protecting your bottom line, your peace of mind, and your property’s reputation.
For homeowners, preventive maintenance means fewer surprise breakdowns, lower energy bills, and a more comfortable, healthier home for your family.
For short-term rental owners, it’s peace of mind. After all, you can’t be there to remind guests to turn down the AC or close the doors when they head out for the day. You can’t always catch small plumbing issues before they become big repairs. That’s where regular maintenance steps in — helping you avoid expensive fixes, protect your property’s reputation, and keep those 5-star reviews rolling in.
Here’s what’s on the line when you stay ahead:
- Lower energy and repair costs
- A more comfortable, healthier space for families and guests
- Stronger resale and rental value
- Fewer headaches, fewer emergencies — and no scrambling to save a booking
Skip the Stress: Break It Into Small Wins
Don’t let a long to-do list scare you off. Tackle a few projects each week, and remember — you don’t have to go it alone. Our Care Club home maintenance program makes it easy with priority scheduling, exclusive discounts, and seasonal tune-ups that take the pressure off.
Room-by-Room Spring Refresh (For Homes & Rentals)
Whether you’re prepping your family home or an Airbnb, here’s your go-to checklist:
In the Kitchen
- Check faucet aerators and under-sink plumbing
- Clean the garbage disposal
- Test GFCI outlets
- Inspect dishwasher and fridge hoses
In the Bathrooms
- Touch up caulk and grout
- Clear shower and sink drains
- Test GFCI outlets
- Check exhaust fan performance
Water Heaters
- Flush the tank to remove sediment
- Inspect for leaks
- Check the pressure relief valve
- Ensure insulation is secure
Lights & Safety Checks
- Replace bulbs and test dimmer switches
- Inspect outlets and reset tripped breakers
- Check smoke and CO detectors
Outdoor Prep
- Inspect hose bibs and irrigation systems
- Clean out gutters
- Clear debris from the outdoor AC unit
- Check exterior lighting
Give Your Major Systems Some Love
Once you’ve handled the little things around the house, don’t skip the big-ticket systems — they’re the backbone of your home or rental, and they’re the most expensive to fix when something goes wrong. A little preventive care now can save you from emergency repairs later (and keep guests and family cool, comfortable, and safe).
Cool & Comfortable: HVAC To-Do List
- Book a professional tune-up: refrigerant, coils, capacitors — we’ve got it covered
- Replace HVAC filters (especially during allergy season!)
- Clear the condensate drain line to prevent water damage
- Remove debris from the outdoor unit
- Test the thermostat and system before peak temps arrive
Leak-Free & Efficient: Plumbing Checkpoints
- Check for leaks under sinks, around toilets, and at outdoor spigots
- Flush the water heater to extend its life
- Test sump pumps in basements or crawl spaces
- Clear slow drains — and call a pro if needed
Stay Safe: Electrical Quick Wins
- Check the electrical panel for tripped breakers
- Test GFCI outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, and garages
- Replace burnt bulbs and clean fixtures
- Test smoke and CO detectors
- Clean ceiling fans and switch to summer direction
A Quick Word for Landlords and Small Businesses
If you own short-term rental properties, you know the stakes are high — reviews, bookings, and guest satisfaction all depend on smooth operations. While our Care Club is designed for residential maintenance, we’re here to help with your rental homes, too — offering expert HVAC, plumbing, and sewer service you can trust.
For local businesses, we offer licensed commercial services like:
- Plumbing repairs and upgrades — handled by Albuquerque experts for reliable, lasting performance.
- Expert drain cleaning and plumbing services — done right by licensed professionals for long-lasting results.
- Commercial HVAC service and repair — keep your systems running smoothly with expert care.
Want to know what’s best for your business? Just call Radiant.
Ready To Own National Home Improvement Month?
Get your home or rental summer-ready — and let Radiant help you stay ahead with expert maintenance, seasonal tune-ups, and trusted repairs. Our Care Club gives homeowners and landlords priority service, savings, and peace of mind, all year long.
Want in? Schedule today and check maintenance off your list.
FAQs
What is National Home Improvement Month?
National Home Improvement Month is a nationwide campaign each May that encourages homeowners to tackle important repairs, upgrades, and seasonal maintenance. Here in Texas, it’s perfectly timed — May gives you a chance to get ahead of the intense summer heat, when AC systems work their hardest, water heaters are under strain, and short-term rentals fill up fast. We help homeowners and landlords prioritize the improvements that protect your comfort, energy efficiency, and home value all year long.
How can I tell if my AC condensate line is clogged?
A clogged condensate line is a common issue in our humid Texas climate, especially as AC units run nonstop through the summer. Watch for warning signs like water pooling near the indoor unit, musty odors around vents, or even your system shutting off unexpectedly as a safety measure. Left unchecked, a blocked line can cause water damage or mold growth. Our team can quickly flush and clear the line as part of a routine tune-up, keeping your system ready for the months ahead.
What are signs my water heater needs service?
In Texas homes, water heaters work year-round — and in short-term rentals, they’re often under even more demand. Warning signs that it’s time for service include rusty or discolored water, popping or rumbling noises (from sediment buildup), slow or limited hot water, or water pooling around the tank. Regular flushing and maintenance from 72 Degrees Texas extends the life of your water heater and ensures guests and family members alike enjoy consistent hot water.
How often should I test smoke and CO detectors?
In Texas homes, we recommend testing smoke and CO detectors once a month and replacing batteries at least twice a year — ideally when the clocks change in spring and fall. This is especially crucial for short-term rentals, where guest safety and peace of mind are non-negotiable. Our team can assist with detector placement, testing, and upgrades to meet modern safety standards, helping you stay protected and compliant.
Do I need a licensed plumber for drain cleaning?
Yes — particularly for recurring clogs, sewer line issues, or when you suspect deeper problems beyond a simple sink blockage. Here in the Hill Country, many homes have aging sewer lines, tree root intrusion, or hard water buildup that require professional expertise and proper licensing to address. At 72 Degrees Texas, our licensed plumbers don’t just clear the blockage; they diagnose the underlying issue to prevent repeat problems.
How can landlords avoid maintenance headaches?
The best way to avoid last-minute repairs and protect your rental’s reputation is through proactive, scheduled maintenance. With Texas tourism booming, short-term rentals are under constant wear — HVAC systems run day and night, plumbing sees heavy use, and electrical loads fluctuate with guests. By working with 72 Degrees Texas for preventive HVAC, plumbing, and electrical service before the busy season, landlords can avoid costly emergencies, reduce downtime, and keep those 5-star reviews coming in.
