Prepare Your HVAC System for Spring
As the temperatures climb this spring, your awareness shifts from home heating to air conditioning. Making sure your HVAC system is prepared for the changing seasons is crucial if you expect to maintain home comfort and energy efficiency. Follow these HVAC system transition strategies from the HVAC specialists at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to be sure your cooling system is primed and ready for the warmer months ahead.
Inspect the Air Filter
Your HVAC filter gradually accumulates dust, pollen and other particles, reducing airflow. This forces your system to work harder. Ideally, 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. 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 decrease 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.
Examine the Outdoor Condensing Unit
The outdoor part of your HVAC system that releases hot air, also known as a condensing unit, is a crucial part of the cooling process. Here’s how to prep your outdoor cooling unit for another summer:
- Pull off the AC cover: If you put a cover or board over your outdoor unit to protect it from snow and ice, remove it before powering up the air conditioning for the first time this spring.
- Clean the unit: Over the fall and winter, your outside unit may have accumulated leaves, dirt and other debris. You can spray it with a garden hose to get rid of this buildup.
- Clear away nearby debris: The area in the vicinity of your outdoor unit must remain clear for optimal airflow. Rake away leaves, pine needles and other debris around the HVAC equipment. Also, trim nearby any plants to make sure you have at least 12 to 24 inches of clearance on all sides.
- Check that the unit is level: The concrete pad your condensing unit is situated on may shift or settle through the years, causing the unit to tilt. To prevent improper operation and premature wear, straighten the unit by wedging shims underneath its base. Verify your adjustments with a carpenter’s level.
Adjust the Thermostat
Adjust your thermostat to a comfy yet energy-efficient temperature. For the hotter months, 78 degrees F is advised while you’re going to be home. If you feel too hot, run the ceiling fan to make the room feel cooler without reducing the thermostat.
Increase the temperature by 7 to 10 degrees when the house is empty during the day to save on power costs. To avoid losing comfort, buy a programmable thermostat and set it to resume to a comfortable temperature when you come home. This approach saves up to 10% on your cooling bills.
Assess and Clean 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. After that, make sure all your vents are open and unobstructed by things like rugs or curtains.
Contrary to popular belief, closing vents in spare rooms does not save energy; all it does is disrupt the system’s return/supply balance. To protect against unnecessary strain, keep at least 80% of your supply registers open and unblocked at all times.
Detect and Seal Air Leaks
Leaky windows, doors and other cracks allow hot, humid air to find its way inside your home. To fix this issue, look over window and door seals, using caulk and weatherstripping to seal any gaps. Next, search the attic for insufficient insulation or breaks around pipes, ductwork and light fixtures. Seal these leaks with spray foam and top them with additional insulation to minimize unwanted air exchange through the attic floor.
Run a Test Cycle
Before the season really gets hot, turn on your cooling system for a short while. Walk around your home and make sure cool air flows freely from every single vent. If you find anything amiss, call a heating and cooling specialist to conduct AC repair to take care of the problem before it becomes a large issue.
Schedule Knowledgeable HVAC Maintenance with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning
While at-home upkeep is useful, it can’t replace the in-depth and skilled care provided by a certified professional. Duties like measuring the refrigerant charge and tightening electrical connections demand specialized tools and training that only pros possess.
Spring is an excellent time to plan AC maintenance, helping you to address issues early on and prepare the system for the summer heat. Prioritize this service to enjoy the following perks:
- Reduced energy costs
- Fewer midseason breakdowns
- Lower repair bills
- 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 provides dependable AC services to ensure your comfort and satisfaction this spring. Our ACE-certified technicians are trained to provide fast, effective solutions to all your HVAC challenges. For experienced service that lives up to our name, phone 954-736-4314 today!
