Summer is a time of fun in the sun, but it's also important that your home can take the heat. Here are a few things to check off your list before the hot weather arrives.

Check your HVAC system. Check the filter on your HVAC system and replace it if it's dirty. Call a pro to check refrigerant levels and complete seasonal maintenance. These steps will ensure that your air conditioning system is running efficiently and will help to avoid any uncomfortable breakdowns.

Program your thermostat for savings. Install a smart thermostat and program it so that you're not cooling the house unnecessarily when you're not at home.

Check air sealing and insulation. Inspect windows, doors and insulation and fix any issues, such as gaps around seals. Keeping the heat and humidity out of your home means that your air conditioning system won't have to work as hard to keep you comfortable.

Rotate ceiling fans counter-clockwise. Ceiling fans can help reduce air conditioning use. Switch their rotation to counter-clockwise in the summer for cooling breezes that help you feel cooler at higher thermostat settings.

Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and put in new batteries for safety.

Clean refrigerator coils. Refrigerator coils can become clogged with dust, inhibiting their cooling capacity. Clean the air intake and compressor coils to ensure efficient operation.

Check lawn and garden power tools. Check and maintain lawn and garden power tools. If old gas-fueled tools are failing, it's a good time to replace them new battery-powered tools that are cleaner, more convenient and cheaper to operate.

Inspect hoses and irrigation systems. Finally, make sure hoses and irrigation systems are working properly and fix any leaks that may have sprung up during the winter.

With just a few hours of your time, you can get your home ready for summer to help make your home more comfortable and efficient.