Summertime can be peaceful and relaxing, but when temperatures spike at the same time as humidity, the weather outside can become unbearable. It’s important to be able to retreat to a cool, relaxing home on hot summer days, that is why routine HVAC maintenance is so important.
How to prepare your HVAC System for Summertime?
Check the Filter & Clean or Replace It as Needed
This is one of the easiest maintenance tasks you can do for your air conditioning system. With continued use, AC filters quickly become dusty, dirty, and clogged. This restricts air flow, reducing the cooling power of your air conditioner. It’s a good idea to check your HVAC system’s filter sometime in the spring, before summer really gets underway.
Check for Visibly Dirty Vents
Another common issue that affects air conditioning efficiency is clogged or dirty vents. While nothing compares to a full air duct cleaning service, performed by an experienced HVAC professional, you can improve the efficiency of your air conditioner by checking the vents throughout your home or business. Look for visible dust, dirt, pet hair, and other debris that may be blocking vents in summertime.
Schedule Your Yearly Professional AC Tune-Up
By far the best way to ensure that your air conditioner continues to work reliably all summer is to schedule an AC tune-up with a professional HVAC technician. During our multi-point inspection, we’ll take a look at all the components of your AC system and ensure that everything is working as it should.
Ensure that Outdoor Areas Are Clear
If you don’t have central air conditioning but instead rely on a different type of AC system, such as a ductless mini-split or a zoned AC system, it’s important that you make sure the outdoor areas near the AC unit are clean and clear of debris. Check for things like leaves, branches, overgrown shrubbery, and other things that may be too near to the unit.
Maximize Your Cooling Power
One of the most common causes of air conditioner breakdowns is overuse. Not only does running your air conditioning at full power 24/7 leave you at risk of breakdowns, it also costs you money. There are a few things you can do to maximize your cooling power all summer long. Invest in high-quality window coverings, like sun-blocking shades. And be sure to keep them closed during the brightest, hottest parts of the day. You can also use fans—both ceiling and standing fans—to boost air flow and cool your home or workplace more efficiently.
Consider Upgrading Your AC
If summer is coming and you can’t stand the thought of going through one more hot season with a less-than-fantastic air conditioning system, you might want to consider upgrading your AC. Replacing your entire cooling system may seem like a big (and expensive) hassle. But it can actually save you a ton of time, money, and stress.
