May isn’t just the month when lawns green up and pollen starts flying — it’s National Home Improvement Month, a perfect time to roll up your sleeves before summer heat and storms arrive. Whether you’re in Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, or a cabin tucked away in one of our beautiful lake areas, the weather here has its own rhythm — and your home feels it.
At Mainstream Electric, Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we’ve been helping local homeowners tackle home maintenance the right way for over two decades. With the right prep, you can protect your home, save money, and enjoy a smooth summer season — and we’re here to help you get it done.
What Is National Home Improvement Month?
National Home Improvement Month was created by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) to inspire people to take care of their greatest investment: their home. You rarely spend more on anything else. But we see it all the time — skipping routine maintenance is one of the biggest reasons folks end up facing costly repairs, surprise breakdowns, and preventable emergencies.
Every year, we get those panicked calls when a system fails right when it’s needed most. That’s why Mainstream is passionate about helping our neighbors stay ahead of the curve — not just react when something breaks.
Small Steps, Big Payoff: Spread Out the Work
Don’t feel overwhelmed! You don’t need to tackle everything in one weekend. We recommend breaking this list into smaller chunks — maybe one room or area each week. You’ll be amazed how much you can accomplish over the month, and you’ll set yourself up for a stress-free summer.
Your Ultimate Homeowner Checklist: Room by Room
Kitchen
- Check faucet aerators for buildup
- Inspect under-sink plumbing for leaks
- Clean the garbage disposal (don’t forget the splash guard!)
- Test GFCI outlets for safety
- Check dishwasher and fridge hoses for wear
Bathrooms
- Inspect caulk and grout to prevent leaks
- Clean shower and sink drains to avoid clogs
- Test GFCI outlets
- Check under-sink plumbing
- Test exhaust fans for proper airflow
Water Heater
- Flush the tank to remove sediment
- Check for leaks around the unit
- Inspect the pressure relief valve
- Make sure insulation is intact
Lights & Panels
- Replace bulbs, including outdoor lights
- Check switches and test outlets
- Inspect smoke and CO detectors
- Reset tripped breakers if needed
Outdoor Spaces
- Inspect hose bibs and outdoor faucets
- Check irrigation for leaks or clogs
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Clear debris from the outdoor AC unit
- Inspect exterior lighting and outlets
Keep Your Biggest Systems Going Strong
Here’s where most homeowners fall short — and where Mainstream can make all the difference. Your HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems are the backbone of your home’s comfort and safety. We know firsthand that a little preventive care now can save thousands later.
HVAC: Beat the Summer Heat Before It Hits
- Schedule your HVAC tune-up — Mainstream’s techs check refrigerant, test capacitors, inspect condensers, and clean coils.
- Change your air filters — pollen season hits hard here (thanks, elm, oak, cedar, and juniper!).
- Clear the condensate drain line to prevent mold and water damage.
- Inspect your outdoor AC unit for debris and blockages.
- Test your thermostat to ensure your system’s ready when summer arrives.
Plumbing: Prevent Leaks, Floods, and Water Waste
- Inspect for leaks under sinks, around toilets, outdoor faucets, and near your water heater.
- Flush the water heater to remove sediment.
- Test your sump pump if you have one in a basement or crawl space.
- Clean slow drains before they become full-blown clogs.
Electrical: Keep Power Reliable and Safe
- Check your electrical panel — loose screws or tripped breakers need attention.
- Test GFCI outlets (especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and garages).
- Inspect and replace light bulbs and check dimmer switches.
- Test smoke and CO detectors and swap in fresh batteries.
- Inspect ceiling fans and set them for summer cooling.
Businesses, You’re in This Too — Don’t Wait Until It’s a Crisis
- Restaurants and strip malls: Clean grease traps and maintain drains to avoid shutdowns.
- Commercial buildings: Remember, licensed plumbers are required for repairs — rooter companies aren’t a replacement.
- HVAC and plumbing service plans: Mainstream offers commercial preventive service plans that help you stay compliant, avoid shutdowns, and control costs.
We Are Home Maintenance. We Are Mainstream.
At Mainstream, we believe homeownership should bring more joy and a lot less stress. Taking on this checklist is a smart way to protect your home and avoid surprises down the road — and the good news is, you don’t have to do it all on your own.
That’s where our Care Club comes in. It’s designed to help you stay ahead of seasonal maintenance, so you can skip the guesswork and focus on what matters most. With priority scheduling, regular system checkups, and year-round peace of mind, you’ll be set up for success in every season.
Learn more about Care Club and join today →
FAQs
What is National Home Improvement Month?
National Home Improvement Month, launched by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), is a nationwide effort each May to encourage homeowners to take better care of their homes. Around here, it’s especially important because our homes deal with wide seasonal swings — chilly, damp springs, sudden bursts of heat in early summer, and long dry stretches that can stress plumbing and HVAC systems. Whether you live in a century-old home in Spokane or a newer build in Post Falls, tackling maintenance now helps protect one of your biggest investments and keeps your household running smoothly year-round.
How can I tell if my AC condensate line is clogged?
In our region, where spring and early summer can bring bursts of humidity followed by dry heat, a clogged condensate line can sneak up on you. Watch for water pooling around your indoor unit or damp spots on nearby walls or ceilings — those are red flags. You might also notice musty odors coming from your vents or hear unusual dripping sounds. Since many homes here have HVAC systems tucked away in attics or basements, it’s easy to miss these signs until damage is underway. If you’re unsure, it’s always smart to call Mainstream — we can check the line before it leads to bigger problems like mold or water damage.
What are signs my water heater needs maintenance?
With cold winters and heavy water use in the Inland Northwest, your water heater works hard — and it needs some love to stay reliable. Signs it’s due for maintenance include rusty or discolored water, rumbling or popping noises, inconsistent hot water, or leaks around the tank. Sediment buildup is common in our area’s water supply, especially in rural homes on well systems, and flushing the tank yearly can make a big difference. Whether your unit lives in a basement, garage, or utility closet, regular care helps extend its life and keeps your showers comfortable year-round.
How often should I test smoke and CO detectors?
Our region’s mix of older homes with wood stoves, newer builds with gas appliances, and homes with backup generators makes smoke and CO detectors essential. You should test them monthly by pressing the test button, replace batteries twice a year (we suggest when you change your clocks for daylight saving time), and replace the entire unit every 7–10 years. With wildfire risks increasing during dry summers and carbon monoxide dangers in winter, it’s one of the simplest and most important ways to protect your household.
Do I need a licensed plumber for my home’s drain cleaning?
Yes — especially in homes across Spokane and Northern Idaho, where aging pipes, tree roots, and seasonal ground shifts can cause tricky clogs. A slow drain might seem minor, but without the right tools and expertise, DIY fixes can cause more harm than good. Mainstream’s licensed plumbers have the experience and equipment to safely clear drains and spot underlying issues, protecting your plumbing system and avoiding bigger repairs down the line.
