Meeting the Challenge: Get Your AC Ready for Spring
As the temperatures climb this spring, your focus shifts from home heating to air conditioning. Making sure your HVAC system is prepared for the changing seasons is critical if you hope to maintain home comfort and energy efficiency. Stick to these HVAC system transition tips from the HVAC specialists at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to make sure your cooling system is primed and ready for the warmer months ahead.
Check the Air Filter
Your HVAC filter gradually accumulates dust, pollen and other particles, decreasing airflow. This can force your system to work harder. Ideally, you should replace the filter every 30-90 days, depending on usage and filter type. Choose the proper size and efficiency rating for your system, due to the fact that using the wrong filter can overly restrict airflow and decrease efficiency. If you’re uncertain which filter to buy or how to install it into your system, ask your HVAC professional during your next maintenance visit to demonstrate.
Look Over the Exterior Condensing Unit
The outdoor portion of your air conditioning system that releases hot air, also known as a condensing unit, is a fundamental 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 during the cold months, remove it before turning on the air conditioner for the first time this spring.
- Clean the unit: Over the fall and winter, your exterior unit may have become covered in leaves, dirt and other clutter. You can hose it down with a garden hose to wash away this buildup.
- Get rid of surrounding debris: The area surrounding your outdoor unit must remain clear for ideal airflow. Clear away leaves, pine needles and other debris close to the condenser. 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 is placed on may shift or settle as time passes, causing the unit to tilt. To prevent improper operation and premature wear, straighten the unit by wedging shims below its base. Confirm your adjustments with a carpenter’s level.
Increase the Temperature on the Thermostat
Adjust your thermostat to a comfy yet energy-efficient temperature. For the hotter months, 78 degrees F is recommended while you’re inside your home. If you feel overheated, operate the ceiling fan to make the room feel cooler without turning down 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, 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 air conditioning expenses.
Check and Clean Your Air Registers
Dust, pet hair and other particles can accumulate on supply and return registers, restricting airflow. Use the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to clean out this buildup. After that, verify all your vents are open and unobstructed by furnishings, rugs or curtains.
In spite of what you might think, closing vents in rarely used rooms does not use less energy; all it does is throw off the system’s return/supply balance. To protect against undue strain, keep at least 80% of your supply registers open and unblocked at all times.
Find and Seal Air Leaks
Leaky windows, doors and other openings allow hot, humid air to find its way in your home. To tackle this concern, look over window and door seals, using caulk and weatherstripping to seal any holes. Next, check the attic for insufficient insulation or spaces near pipes, ductwork and light fixtures. Fix 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 warms up, turn on your AC for a little bit. Walk around your home and make sure cool air flows effortlessly from each vent. If you find anything wrong, schedule 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 HVAC service is advantageous, 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 an excellent time to set up AC maintenance, helping you to deal with issues quickly and prepare the system for the summer heat. Prioritize this service to enjoy the following advantages:
- Lower energy bills
- Fewer midseason breakdowns
- Lower repair expenditures
- 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 speedy, effective solutions to all your heating and air conditioning desires. For expert service that lives up to our name, phone 954-736-4314 today!
