With Summer here that means that you need to prep for the heat! Water the lawn, keep the house cool, and keep your home in tip top shape so the sunny days can show off your home. This list will help make your home looking great all summer long and the envy of the neighborhood.

Check detectors. Check your home's smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they're working properly.

Inspect air-conditioners. Make sure to prep air conditioners and fans for the hottest season. If you do not have air conditioning then we recommend you to get one if your home gets hot in the summer. Summer is more fun when not overheating.

Clean your outdoor cooker. Give your grill a deep cleaning with these simple steps:

• For gas grills, turn the heat up to high and let the grill cook with the lid closed for about half an hour. Allow the grill to cool and then brush it off with a grill brush. Wipe down the exterior with a damp sponge and a gentle cleanser. Clean the grill's drip pans.

• For charcoal grills, completely empty the grill and wipe out any ashy residue. Then clean it inside and out with hot water, a scrubby sponge and some liquid dishwashing soap. Let the grill dry completely before using it again.

Analyze your deck. Look over your deck for signs of rotting and hammer in any nails that are poking up. Then, determine if your deck needs sealing. Sprinkle water on the deck's boards. If the water beads up, you're in good shape; but if it soaks right in, it's time to reseal the deck to prevent future problems.

Wash your windows. If you didn't tackle exterior window washing in the spring, now's the time to get your glass clean. Take advantage of the dryer weather and prep for fall, winter and spring. We all know here in Washington that Summer is the best bet for prolonged dry days.

Get some mulch! Add a layer of mulch to keep weeds down and help the ground retain its moisture in the heat. It'll give your plants a chance to grow.

Eyes open for leaks. Check your hoses and exterior faucets for leaks -- even a tiny drip can add up to a big waste of water. Pinhole leaks in hoses can be covered up by winding regular electrical tape around the hose in overlapping layers. Make sure the hose isn't wet so the adhesive can stick.

Plan your watering schedule. Train your garden to endure dry days by watering deeply a couple times a week, instead of watering lightly daily. This style of watering will promote the growth of deep, strong roots.

Stop dirt at the door. Keep summer's mud and muck outside with not one, but two doormats at your main entry door. Place a coarse mat at the exterior and a softer cloth one on the interior to catch the most dirt. Better still, instruct family members to remove their shoes upon entering.