Spring HVAC: Prepare Now, Be Comfortably Cool Later

As the weather warms this spring, your focus shifts from heating your home to cooling it. Preparing your HVAC system for the changing seasons is crucial if you want to maintain home comfort and energy efficiency. Use these HVAC system transition tips from the HVAC specialists at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to ensure your air conditioner is primed and ready for the warmer months ahead.

Check the Air Filter

Your HVAC filter over time traps dust, pollen and other particles, reducing airflow. This requires your system to work harder. Preferably, you should replace the filter every three months or less, with exactly how often you change it determined by your system usage and filter type. Install the recommended size and efficiency rating for your system, because using an incorrect filter can overly restrict airflow and diminish efficiency. If you’re unsure which filter to buy or how to install it into your system, ask your HVAC specialist during your next maintenance visit to demonstrate.

Look Over the Exterior Condensing Unit

The outdoor unit of your AC system that expels hot air, also known as a condensing unit, is a necessary part of the cooling process. Here’s how to prep your outdoor cooling unit for another summer:

• Remove the AC cover: If you placed a cover or board over your outdoor unit to protect it during the winter, remove it before powering up the air conditioner 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 debris. You can hose it down with a garden hose to remove this buildup.
• Remove neighboring debris: The area surrounding your outdoor unit needs to remain clear for optimal airflow. Rake away leaves, pine needles and other debris near the HVAC equipment. Also, prune nearby flowers, shrubs and trees to make sure you have at least 12 to 24 inches of clearance on all sides.
• Verify the unit is level: The concrete pad your condensing unit is situated on may shift or settle with time, causing the unit to tilt. To protect against improper operation and premature wear, level the unit by wedging shims below its base. Confirm your adjustments with a carpenter’s level.

Adjust the Thermostat

Set your thermostat to a comfy yet energy-efficient temperature. For the summer months, 78 degrees F is advised while you’re going to be home. If you feel overly warm, run the ceiling fan to make the room feel cooler without turning down the thermostat.

Boost the temperature by 7 to 10 degrees when the house is empty during the day to save on power costs. To avoid compromising comfort, install a programmable thermostat and set it to resume to a higher temperature before you return home. This strategy saves up to 10% on your cooling expenses.

Inspect and Vacuum Your Air Registers

Dust, pet hair and other particles can collect on supply and return registers, hindering airflow. Use the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to clear away this mess. Then, make sure all your vents are open and not covered up by furnishings, rugs or curtains.

Despite what some have been told, closing vents in rarely used rooms does not save energy; all it does is throw off the system’s return/supply balance. To protect against unnecessary strain, keep a minimum of 80% of your supply registers open and unblocked at all times.

Find and Fix Air Leaks

Leaky windows, doors and other cracks let hot, humid air to get inside your home. To fix this concern, examine window and door seals, using caulk and weatherstripping to seal any cracks. Next, check the attic for insufficient insulation or gaps near pipes, ductwork and light fixtures. Fix these leaks with spray foam and top them with additional insulation to reduce unwanted air exchange through the attic floor.

Run a Test Cycle

Before the season really gets hot, operate your cooling system for a few minutes. Walk around your home and make sure cool air flows effortlessly from each and every vent. If you see anything awry, call a heating and cooling specialist to conduct AC repair to correct the issue right away.

Schedule Knowledgeable HVAC Maintenance with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

While do-it-yourself HVAC service is useful, it can’t replace the comprehensive care provided by a certified professional. Tasks like measuring the refrigerant charge, tightening electrical connections and cleaning the evaporator coil demand specialized tools and training that only pros possess.

Spring is an excellent time to schedule AC maintenance, allowing you to deal with issues at the beginning and prepare the system for the summer heat. Prioritize this service to appreciate the following benefits:

• Reduced energy expenses
• Fewer midseason breakdowns
• Lower repair expenditures
• Better home comfort
• Longer system life span
• Protected warranty coverage

Why Choose Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Your HVAC Needs in the U.S.?

Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing provides reputable AC services to ensure your comfort and satisfaction this spring. Our ACE-certified technicians are trained to provide prompt, effective solutions to all your heating and air conditioning needs. For skilled service that lives up to our name, reach out to us at 866-397-3787 today!