Is Your HVAC Ready For Summer? 7 Quick Tips For a Cool Home

As summer approaches, ensuring your HVAC system is prepared for the heat can save you from discomfort and expensive repairs. Taking proactive steps now will help maintain a comfortable indoor environment and optimize your system’s efficiency throughout the hot months ahead. Here’s your comprehensive guide to getting your HVAC system summer-ready.

Replace or Clean Air Filters

One of the simplest yet most crucial HVAC service tasks is attending to your air filters. A clogged filter forces your system to work harder, reducing efficiency and potentially causing damage. Check your filters monthly and replace or clean them according to manufacturer recommendations. Most homes benefit from filter replacement every 60-90 days, though homes with pets or high dust levels may need more frequent attention.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

Nothing beats a professional inspection to ensure your system performs at peak performance. A qualified HVAC technician will:

• Check refrigerant levels and look for potential leaks
• Clean and inspect coils for damage or debris
• Test electrical connections and components
• Calibrate your thermostat for optimal performance
• Lubricate moving parts to prevent wear and tear

Clear Outdoor Unit Obstructions

Your outdoor condensing unit needs proper airflow to function effectively. Remove any debris, leaves, or vegetation growing within two feet of the unit. Trim back branches and bushes that could impede airflow and ensure the unit remains level on its pad or foundation.

Test Your Thermostat

Verify your thermostat is working correctly before the peak cooling season arrives. Set it to “cool” and lower the temperature setting. Listen for your system to kick on and monitor whether it maintains the desired temperature. Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat if you haven’t already – these can significantly improve both comfort and energy efficiency.

Check and Clean Vents

Proper airflow through your vents is essential for maintaining optimal HVAC performance. Here are the key areas to address:

• Inspect all supply and return vents throughout your home, ensuring they’re fully open and unobstructed
• Remove and thoroughly clean all vent covers using warm, soapy water to eliminate dust and debris buildup
• Check inside visible ductwork for signs of dust accumulation or potential blockages
• Verify that all vents are properly secured to walls or floors
• Ensure no furniture, curtains, or decorative items are blocking airflow to or from vents

Address Humidity Concerns

Your air conditioning system helps control indoor humidity, but sometimes it needs additional support. Consider using a dehumidifier in particularly damp areas of your home. Proper humidity levels improve comfort and help your AC operate more efficiently.

Evaluate Your Home’s Insulation

While not directly related to your HVAC system, proper insulation plays a crucial role in maintaining comfortable temperatures. Check your attic insulation levels and inspect windows and doors for air leaks. Adding weatherstripping or caulk where needed can significantly reduce the load on your cooling system.

Getting Ready for the Season Ahead

Taking these steps to prepare your HVAC system for summer will help ensure reliable, efficient cooling when you need it most. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your system but also helps prevent costly breakdowns during peak cooling season. Remember that while many maintenance tasks can be handled by homeowners, some require professional expertise. Don’t hesitate to contact a qualified HVAC technician if you encounter any concerns during your preparation process. With proper attention and care, your HVAC system will keep you comfortable all summer long.