As summer approaches, you must complete a home preparation checklist. One of the most important items on the checklist is preparing your air conditioner. You probably didn’t use it much during the comfortable spring weather, so it’s time to get it ready for heavy usage. Here’s how to prepare an AC unit for summertime.
Clean the HVAC System
A clean HVAC system runs efficiently and cools better. Clean the filter to start with a clean slate. Continue to clean the filter about once a week during the summer months. If you have a replaceable filter, be sure to change it every one to three months.
You should also clean the area right outside your HVAC unit. Trim any bushes or trees that might clog the system with leaves and other natural debris.
Clean and Inspect Ductwork
The ductwork in your house carries the air from your central unit air conditioner to different rooms. Central air works far better than a window unit that can only cool the room it’s in and so much further. Of course, it costs more for better quality cooling capabilities. You want to keep the ducts working properly to ensure you get the most out of your investment.
You need to clean your ductwork to prevent blockages. Dust and debris can build up in the ductwork, impeding the airflow. You also need to check for leaks in the ductwork. A leak will prevent the air from getting past that particular point, affecting the room the duct leads to. You can do the work yourself or call an HVAC professional to ensure it gets done properly.
Properly Insulate Your Home
A well-insulated house keeps the air conditioned air inside instead of letting it escape through the walls, windows, or roof. You should start by adding additional insulation in the attic, walls, and basement. You can also upgrade your doors to energy-efficient models. If it isn’t time to upgrade the windows and doors, add weatherstripping to fill in the cracks. Finally, you can use thick blinds to keep the sun out.
Air Out Your Home
You’ll use your air conditioner on hot days instead of opening the windows and letting hot air inside. This means you won’t have as much fresh air in your home as you do during the more temperate spring season. Take advantage of the good weather while you can. Keep your windows open on mild days and let the fresh air in. This will keep the air fresh for as long as possible when you have to keep the windows closed. Even during the hot summer months, you can open the windows at night when the temperature drops significantly, giving you the opportunity to bring fresh air inside again.
Install a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat connects your HVAC system to your smartphone. This gives you the opportunity to control it from anywhere. However, it also allows you to set and adjust temperatures automatically. Pick your favorite temperature, and then program the thermostat to reach that temperature when you get home from work every day. You should also set it to raise the temperature when everybody leaves. You won’t have to worry about remembering to do it yourself, and you’ll see significant savings on your utility bill.
Get a Professional Tune-Up
Before the weather gets hot, have a professional HVAC technician give your system a tune-up. An AC maintenance value program includes:
- Detailed cleaning
- Detailed inspection
- Electrical connections tightening
- Air duct cleaning
- Thermostat calibration
You won’t have to worry about scheduling the appointments since the HVAC company will have you on the schedule. Many maintenance programs also come with a reduced rate as well as additional discounts.
Call for HVAC Service
Request service from [company_name] to get your Meridian HVAC system ready for summer. [company_name] also offers additional heating and cooling services including, installation, maintenance, and repair. We’ve been in business since 1956, and our company has an A+ rating with the BBB, so you know we have the experience and know-how to get the job done right. We’re also a proud winner of the Dave Lennox Award. We offer 24/7 emergency service for those times when you have an emergency that just can’t wait. Call [company_name] today to schedule an appointment and learn more about the services we offer throughout Meridian.