Prepare Your HVAC System for Spring
As the temperatures climb this spring, your attention shifts from home heating to air conditioning. Getting your heating and cooling equipment ready for the changing seasons is essential if you hope to maintain home comfort and energy efficiency. Use these HVAC system transition tips from the HVAC pros at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to ensure your air conditioner is primed and ready for the warmer months ahead.
Check the Air Filter
Your HVAC filter gradually collects dust, pollen and other particles, minimizing airflow. This forces your system to work harder. If possible, you should replace the filter every 30-90 days, depending on usage and filter type. Pick the recommended size and efficiency rating for your system, due to the fact that using anything other than the recommended size and type of filter can overly restrict airflow and diminish efficiency. If you’re uncertain which filter to buy or how to install it into your system, ask your HVAC technician during your next maintenance visit to demonstrate.
Inspect the Outdoor Condensing Unit
The outdoor unit of your air conditioning system that blows out hot air, also known as a condensing unit, is a fundamental part of the cooling process. Here’s how to prepare your condensing unit for another summer:
- Take off the AC cover: If you threw a cover or board over your outdoor unit to protect it during the winter, remove it before powering up the AC for the first time this spring.
- Clean the unit: Over the fall and winter, your outside unit may have become covered in leaves, dirt and other waste. Carefully hose it down with a garden hose to wash away this buildup.
- Remove neighboring debris: The area surrounding your outdoor unit must remain clear for optimal airflow. Remove leaves, pine needles and other debris close to the HVAC equipment. Also, trim nearby any plants to ensure at least 12 to 24 inches of clearance on all sides.
- Check that the unit is level: The concrete pad your condensing unit sits on may shift or settle over time, causing the unit to tilt. To protect against improper operation and premature wear, adjust the unit by wedging shims below its base. Confirm your adjustments with a carpenter’s level.
Change the Thermostat
Set your thermostat to a comfortable yet energy-efficient temperature. For the hotter months, 78 degrees F is recommended while you’re at home. If you feel overheated, run the ceiling fan to make the room feel cooler without lowering the thermostat.
Raise the temperature by 7 to 10 degrees when everyone is out of the residence during the day for energy savings. To avoid sacrificing comfort, buy a programmable thermostat and set it to resume to a cozy temperature before you return home. This approach saves up to 10% on your cooling expenses.
Assess and Clear Out Your Air Registers
Dust, pet hair and other airborne waste can build up on supply and return registers, hindering airflow. Use the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove this buildup. After that, make sure all your vents are open and not covered up by objects, rugs or curtains.
Despite what some have been told, closing vents in rarely used rooms does not save energy; all it does is disrupt the system’s return/supply balance. To avoid excessive strain, keep a minimum of 80% of your supply registers open and unblocked at all times.
Find and Seal Air Leaks
Leaky windows, doors and other gaps enable hot, humid air to get in your home. To tackle this issue, examine window and door seals, using caulk and weatherstripping to seal any holes. Next, search the attic for insufficient insulation or breaks near pipes, ductwork and light fixtures. Seal these leaks with spray foam and top them with additional insulation to cut down on unwanted air exchange through the attic floor.
Turn on Your System to Test It
Before the season really gets hot, run your AC for a few minutes. Walk around your home and make sure cool air flows freely from each and every vent. If you see anything wrong, call in a professional HVAC tech for AC repair to correct the issue right away.
Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning
While do-it-yourself maintenance is beneficial, it can’t replace the thorough care provided by a certified professional. Work like measuring the refrigerant charge and tightening electrical connections require specialized tools and training that only specialists possess.
Spring is a perfect time to set up AC maintenance, allowing you to deal with issues early on and prepare the system for the summer heat. Prioritize this service to appreciate the following benefits:
- Reduced energy expenses
- Fewer midseason breakdowns
- Lower repair costs
- Better home comfort
- Longer system life span
- Protected warranty coverage
Why Choose Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for Your HVAC Needs in Fort Lauderdale?
Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning offers reputable AC services to ensure your comfort and satisfaction this spring. Our ACE-certified technicians are trained to provide speedy, effective solutions to all your HVAC desires. For professional service that lives up to our name, call 954-736-4314 today!
