As the days get longer and the weather gets hotter, it’s important to make sure your HVAC unit is up for the task of keeping your home cool and comfortable. With a little summer maintenance, you can help keep your unit running smoothly all season long. Here are a few maintenance tips to ensure your HVAC system is prepared for the summer.
1. Check the Filters
The filters help to keep the air flowing properly, and they prevent dust and dirt from building up in the unit. When the filters become clogged, it can cause the unit to work harder and use more energy, which can lead to higher utility bills. In addition, clogged filters can also cause the unit to overheat, which can damage the compressor and other vital components. For these reasons, it is important to check and change the filters regularly. Depending on the type of filter you have, you may need to change it every two or three months. However, if you have a reusable filter, you can simply rinse it off with water and let it air dry before inserting it back into the unit.
2. Improve the Airflow
Airflow is a crucial element in maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature and preventing your HVAC unit from overworking. This can be accomplished in a number of ways, such as opening doors and windows at night when the temperature is cooler outside compared to in your home. This is an obvious way to improve airflow, but it’s also often the most effective. Crack a window open in each room that you’re using and let the fresh air in. You can also rearrange your house if you have heavy furniture blocking vents or doors. This will allow air to circulate more freely. Another way to improve airflow is to clean the vents. This is because dust and dirt can build up on vents, blocking airflow and making your HVAC unit work harder.
Here are four benefits of improving airflow.
Increased Comfort
When your home is properly ventilated, it will feel more comfortable. The air will be circulating better, which will help to even out the temperature and reduce stuffiness.
Lower Energy Bills
Good airflow means your HVAC unit won’t have to work as hard to cool your home. This can lead to lower energy bills and can help you save money.
Improved Indoor Air Quality
Poor ventilation can lead to a buildup of dust, pollen, and other allergens in your home. By improving the airflow, you can help to reduce these common indoor air pollutants.
Extended HVAC Lifespan
Finally, good airflow can help to extend the lifespan of your HVAC unit. When your unit doesn’t have to work as hard, it will experience less wear and tear, meaning it will last longer before needing to be replaced.
3. Clear Debris
To ensure that your HVAC runs smoothly and efficiently all season long, it’s important to perform basic maintenance tasks such as clearing away any debris accumulated around the unit. This includes leaves, twigs, and any other organic material. Not only does this debris provide a breeding ground for insects and rodents, but it can also block airflow and cause the unit to overheat. In addition, clearing away debris will help improve your HVAC unit’s efficiency and extend its lifespan. So, be sure to add this simple task to your summer maintenance checklist.
4. Clean the Coils
During the hot summer months, your HVAC unit works overtime to keep your home cool and comfortable. As a result, the coils can become covered in dust and dirt, which can reduce the unit’s efficiency and cause it to overheat. To help keep your unit running smoothly, be sure to clean the coils on a regular basis. You can use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove loose dirt and dust. For more stubborn grime, you may need to use a coil cleaning solution. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, as using too many solutions can damage the coils.
5. Check the Refrigerant Line
The refrigerant line is responsible for carrying coolant between the indoor and outdoor units of your HVAC system. If the line becomes leaky, it can cause your system to lose its coolant, which will lead to higher energy bills and decreased efficiency. In extreme cases, a leaky refrigerant line can even cause your system to break down completely. That’s why it’s important to inspect the line every few months and have a technician replace any worn or damaged parts. You may also want to consider getting a professional technician to seal your heating and cooling ducts as this will help to improve your HVAC energy efficiency.
6. Adjust the Temperature
During the summer, set the thermostat to 78 degrees. This will help keep your unit from working overtime and prevent it from overheating. During the winter, set the thermostat to 68 degrees. This will help keep your unit from working too hard and prevent it from freezing up. As a result, you’ll save money on your energy bills and extend the lifespan of your unit.
7. Schedule a Maintenance Check
Scheduling a routine maintenance check can help your unit last up to 15 years and avoid costly repairs. Stressful situations can also be averted if you consult an experienced team for the job. They will be able to properly clean and assess your unit, ensuring that it runs smoothly and efficiently when you need it the most.
8. Hire a Technician to Check Your Electrical System
It is advisable to regularly check your electrical system. Have one of our technicians ensure that the wiring is intact and free of any scorched or blackened marks. If we see any damage, we can let you know right away. This is a sign that your wiring is overloaded and could cause a fire. Also, we’ll be sure to check all of the connections and make sure they are tight and free of corrosion.
9. Consider an Upgrade
If your HVAC unit is more than a few years old, it may not be up to the task. By upgrading, you will be able to take advantage of new features that can help improve the efficiency of your system as well as its overall performance. For example, newer HVAC systems typically come with more efficient filters that can help to remove more dust and debris from the air. Additionally, they may also include features, such as humidistats, that can help to regulate the level of humidity in your home, making it more comfortable during the hotter months.
Contact Heating Professionals Today!
Sano Heating & Air Conditioning is dedicated to providing quality heating, cooling, and indoor air quality services to the residents of Anaheim and the surrounding areas. We offer financing options to make our services more affordable, and we are committed to providing the highest level of customer satisfaction. Call us today, and get to know more about our services. We can schedule an indoor air comfort appointment at any time.
