May marks National Home Improvement Month — the perfect moment to give homes the attention they deserve before the Texas heat kicks into high gear. Across Austin’s vibrant neighborhoods and San Antonio’s proud communities, homeowners are gearing up to handle those long-overdue maintenance tasks. With summer just around the corner, it’s time to swap procrastination for preparation and get every system, faucet, and fixture ready for the season ahead.
What Is National Home Improvement Month?
Since 2020, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) has marked May as the time to celebrate and prep homes for the Texas summer ahead. Think of it as a month-long nod to homeownership — minus the confetti, plus a healthy dose of peace of mind.
At its core, National Home Improvement Month is about empowering homeowners to take control of their spaces before the busy, hot months roll in. It’s not just about major remodels or splashy upgrades — it’s about the small, meaningful tasks that protect comfort, safety, and long-term value.
From replacing worn-out caulk to giving the HVAC system some overdue attention, this month encourages a proactive approach that can prevent costly surprises down the road. With the support of organizations like NARI, homeowners nationwide are reminded that maintenance isn’t just a chore — it’s an investment in the home’s well-being and the family’s peace of mind.
A Little Maintenance Now = Big Savings and Peace of Mind Later
Taking care of your home isn’t just about crossing tasks off a list — it’s about protecting your comfort, health, and wallet. Preventive maintenance helps:
- Save money by avoiding costly emergency repairs.
- Increase energy efficiency and reduce utility bills.
- Protect your family’s health by maintaining good indoor air and water quality.
- Boost home value with systems that work smoothly and look cared for.
And let’s be honest — there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a home that’s running like a well-oiled machine (or a perfectly tuned HVAC system).
Tackle Your To-Do List One Step at a Time
There’s no need to power through every project in a weekend sprint. The beauty of National Home Improvement Month is in pacing it out. By breaking tasks into manageable, bite-sized steps, the to-do list becomes less overwhelming and a lot more achievable.
Spread the work across the month, mix in some professional help where it counts, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing the home is ready for whatever summer has in store.
To make it even easier, here’s a room-by-room guide to help organize the effort and keep the momentum going — one small win at a time.
Your Ultimate Room-by-Room Home Refresh Game Plan
Kitchens
- Check faucet aerators and water pressure.
- Inspect under-sink plumbing for leaks.
- Clean the garbage disposal (hint: ice cubes + lemon peels).
- Test GFCI outlets for safety.
- Inspect dishwasher and fridge hoses.
Bathrooms
- Inspect and replace caulk and grout.
- Clean shower and sink drains.
- Test GFCI outlets.
- Check under-sink plumbing.
- Test exhaust fans for proper ventilation.
Water Heaters
- Flush the tank to remove sediment.
- Check for leaks or rust.
- Inspect the pressure relief valve.
- Ensure insulation is intact.
Bright Ideas for a Safer, Cozier Home
- Replace burned-out bulbs.
- Check light switches and outlets.
- Inspect smoke and CO detectors.
- Reset tripped breakers and test panels.
Take It Outside!
- Inspect hose bibs and outdoor faucets.
- Check irrigation systems for leaks.
- Clean gutters and downspouts.
- Clear debris from the outdoor AC unit.
- Inspect exterior lighting.
HVAC To-Dos Before Summer Hits
- Schedule an AC tune-up — get those refrigerant levels, run capacitors, condensers, and coils checked.
- Change HVAC filters to improve indoor air quality, especially with Austin’s oak pollen or San Antonio’s cedar allergens.
- Clear the condensate drain line to prevent mold or water damage.
- Inspect the outdoor AC unit — clear debris and check condenser lines.
- Test the thermostat to ensure your system cools efficiently before the summer heat arrives.
Plumbing Maintenance Priorities
- Inspect for leaks under sinks, around toilets, and near the water heater.
- Flush the water heater to extend its lifespan.
- Test sump pumps to avoid indoor flooding.
- Skip the chemical drain cleaners — use a plunger or snake for slow drains.
Here’s to a Happier, Healthier Home — All Month Long
National Home Improvement Month is the perfect time to check those home maintenance tasks off the list and head into summer with confidence. But the real win? Not having to lift a finger next time.
With Radiant’s Care Club maintenance plan, routine plumbing and HVAC upkeep is handled automatically — no stress, no last-minute scrambling. From seasonal tune-ups to priority scheduling and exclusive savings, Care Club keeps every system running smoothly, so homeowners can focus on enjoying their home, not fixing it.
For those ready to tackle the list now, Radiant’s team is always standing by to help. And for those ready to hand it off for good? Just Call Radiant.
For even more inspiration this month, check out the NARI page
National Home Improvement Month FAQs
What is National Home Improvement Month?
National Home Improvement Month is a nationwide initiative led by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) that encourages homeowners to make meaningful improvements every May. It’s all about taking care of the small but mighty tasks that keep a home running smoothly — from the pipes behind the walls to the AC working overtime when the heat cranks up.
How can I tell if my AC condenser line is clogged?
A clogged AC condenser line often shows up as water pooling near the indoor unit, musty or moldy smells, or even the system shutting off unexpectedly. When the temperatures start climbing, the last thing anyone wants is an AC hiccup. A quick check now — or better yet, a professional tune-up — can help keep the cool air flowing all summer long.
What are signs my water heater needs maintenance?
Watch for rusty or discolored water, inconsistent water temperatures, strange rumbling or popping noises, or a hot water supply that runs cold too fast. These are all signals that the water heater is due for attention. Regular flushing and inspections help extend its lifespan, improve efficiency, and prevent those chilly surprises nobody enjoys.
How often should smoke and CO detectors be tested?
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors every month, and replace the batteries at least once a year. These small devices play a big role in keeping households safe — and they’re easy to overlook. Building a habit of regular testing ensures they’re ready when needed most.
Do I need a licensed plumber for my home’s drain cleaning?
Yes — especially when clogs are stubborn, recurring, or deep in the system. While plungers or hand snakes can handle minor backups, chemical and enzymatic cleaners can damage pipes and worsen the problem. A licensed plumber has the tools and know-how to clear blockages safely and permanently, helping avoid bigger headaches down the road.
How can commercial businesses avoid plumbing or HVAC shutdowns?
The key is proactive, professional maintenance. Regular inspections, tune-ups, and service plans help catch small issues before they turn into major disruptions. For businesses, that means fewer surprises, smoother operations, and a lot less downtime — no matter how hot the summer or how busy the season.
