When it comes to HVAC systems, many people worry about the heating aspect. However, in many parts of the USA, it’s the air conditioner that does the really hard work.
Tips to Prevent Strain on AC System:
If you’ve skipped routine AC maintenance for a while, you might be worried that your HVAC system will struggle to cope this summer. Here are five tips to help you ensure your system works the way it should.
Set Your AC to the Right Temperature
The first thing you should do to make sure your air conditioner can cope this summer is to choose the right temperature. Remember that the more difference there is between the air inside your home or office and the air outside, the harder your HVAC equipment has to work.
If you only use your air conditioner during the day, start it up as early in the morning as you can, so it can cool the space before it gets too warm. Trying to cool a space after it’s already hot takes a lot more work! Always remember that the more degrees you’re trying to drop, the harder your AC unit will have to work! So any savings you have from turning it off at night might be lost when it tries to cool the space again.
Keep Your Filters Clean
Air filters are an integral part of your HVAC system, but they need to be changed regularly. When your filters are dirty, it’s a lot harder for air to move through them, and that makes your HVAC system work harder. Not to mention that dirty filters can harbor bacteria, fungus and other nasty things you don’t want to circulate in your air!
When you schedule AC maintenance again, ask the technician what their recommended filter changing schedule is for your system. Make sure you have a stock of new filters on hand and set a reminder to check and replace them as directed.
Keep Windows and Doors Shut
If you run your air conditioner with the doors and windows open, you’re really just wasting energy. All the cool air that should be circulating in your home or office will escape, and hot air will replace it. If you want to have doors and windows open, first turn off the AC!
Be sure to check that the insulation in your roof or attic is adequate too. Your home can lose or gain a lot of heat from above, and insulation can settle over time, making it less effective.
Improve Insulation
Many people think of insulation as something you need for homes and offices in very cold climates. However, while it’s true that insulation helps to keep heat in in the winter, it also helps to keep heat out in the summer.
If your space is poorly insulated, consider getting quotes to improve it. Don’t forget about window and door seals either. Gaps around these openings can let a lot of heat in or out!
It’s always a good idea to speak to an insulation professional if you think you need help. They will be able to recommend the right products and solutions for your space.
Schedule Routine Maintenance
If it’s been a while since you’ve had routine AC maintenance, it’s a good idea to contact a contractor to schedule an appointment.
Even relatively minor issues with your HVAC system can make it work a lot harder to get the job done. An annual tune up of your HVAC system can make all the difference. AC maintenance will not only ensure that your air conditioner gets your home cool and keeps it cool, but it can also help you to save on energy bills!
Contact Us
If you’re ready to schedule AC maintenance or you need an HVAC system repair, we’re ready to help. Contact Airsmiths Cooling & Heating by phone or email for all your AC maintenance and repair needs. We’ll help you to stay cool this summer!
