Summer HVAC Maintenance Tips From the Pros
The hottest period of the year is here, and now is the time to make sure your HVAC can keep the house cool. As summer cranks up, the unit may have trouble delivering optimal temperatures, especially if it’s not maintained properly. It’s important to pay attention to the air conditioning system to avoid a significant decrease in the comfort level of your home.
This entry will provide several HVAC maintenance tips for the summer.
What are the best ways to prepare an HVAC for the summer?
Here’s how to make sure your unit can take on sky-high temperatures without a hitch:
Tackle the filter
The air filter should receive the most attention during maintenance. HVAC units generally have a disposable or permanent filter. In terms of the disposable option, it should be replaced once a month. Other types don’t require such frequent replacement, but they should be cleaned once every 30 or so days.
Installing programmable thermostats
All knowledgeable air conditioning professionals will recommend installing a programmable thermostat to lower the energy bill. Newer technologies allow for customizing the AC schedule, even when you’re not home.
For instance, people can schedule the system to shut down or let indoor temperatures rise slightly if they don’t plan to return anytime soon. Apart from saving a lot of money, a programmable thermostat helps prevent the AC from operating too hard in the warmest conditions.
Clean the outside unit
Another essential maintenance task is to clean the exterior of the AC. Various outdoor debris, such as mulch, leaves, and grass clippings, can accumulate in the condensing unit. Consequently, the fins permitting the heat to exit the system are blocked. To prevent this, any obstruction should be removed gently, making sure not to damage any components during the process.
Lower heat from your other appliances
Next, it’s wise to avoid firing up large appliances that produce heat all day long. When cooking dinner, plan meals that don’t require the use of the oven or stove. Instead, consider using an outdoor grill. Using the stove will only add extra warmth to the premises and push the AC unit to its limits.
Address the vents
The AC can only operate at peak performance if there’s no obstruction to the airflow in the walls. Therefore, don’t forget to check for any visible blockages. Examine all vents and clear out debris or dust. Also, ensure vents in any room the unit will be working in are open, helping the system provide optimal coverage throughout the property.
To avoid any oversights, reach out to professional HVAC contractors. They know what to look for and will detect any issues, even in those hard-to-reach areas.
Stud Air Conditioning is a full-service installation, maintenance, and repair HVAC company serving Broward, Miami-Dade, West Palm Beach, and Port St. Lucie counties. Call us when you need help with your heating or cooling needs at (954)324-2905. We can help!