Summers in Spokane and its surrounding areas can reach the mid-80s and higher. It is during these summer months that people turn on their air conditioners to find relief. Before summer arrives, it’s a good idea to ensure that your HVAC system is working properly so you’re not left uncomfortable in the middle of a heat wave. Let’s look at some of the HVAC maintenance tips that can help you stay cool all summer regardless of what the weather outside is like.
Filter Maintenance
Filter maintenance is one of the easiest HVAC-related tasks to complete. It’s commonly addressed as part of a routine maintenance appointment performed by a professional. It’s also something you can do on your own. Furnace filters generally need to be replaced every 30 to 90 days, depending on the type of filter that you have. When a filter becomes dusty and clogged, this can restrict airflow. This negatively affects the cooling power of your air conditioner.
A clogged filter can also impact the interior components of your HVAC system, leading to premature wear and tear as your equipment becomes overworked to keep up. Checking your filter before you switch on your air conditioner for the first time is a good idea, but routine maintenance will address any particulates that have made their way into your furnace or air conditioner.
Checking the Condition of Your Ductwork and Vents
Dirty ductwork can affect the efficiency of your HVAC system and air conditioner. A professional can check the condition of your ducts to see if they’re in need of professional cleaning. They look for visible dust, dirt, pet hair, etc. Not only will dirty ducts impact your indoor air quality, but they can also prevent your furnace and air conditioner from running efficiently.
It’s also important to make sure that all of your vents are open and clear. Opening everything up will promote ample airflow and more comfortable indoor air in the summer. In each room, make sure you have at least a few feet of space around each vent. Never place furniture or other items over your vents. Restricting airflow can result in your system’s coils freezing and force your system to work harder to circulate air. This leads to an increase in repairs and can shorten the life expectancy of your equipment.
Routine HVAC Maintenance
Scheduling a routine maintenance appointment with an HVAC technician confirms that you can rely on your air conditioning all summer. This is a multipoint inspection that looks at various components of your HVAC system. A professional will check refrigerant levels, electrical connections, fans, motors and leaking seals.
Any issues that are spotted can likely be fixed during your maintenance appointment. It’s important to take care of problems early on before they lead to major issues later on.
Checking Exterior Equipment
Central air conditioning units are situated outdoors. This space should be checked to confirm that there isn’t any debris, branches or overgrown landscaping too close to the unit. Always keep the grass trimmed underneath and around your air conditioner to prevent debris from getting inside.
Use Additional Cooling Features
It’s important that you maximize the amount of cooling power that your HVAC equipment provides. Running your air conditioner too frequently in the summer can create high utility bills. You can use ceiling fans to help circulate cool air around your home. Just make sure that you have the blades set to move in a clockwise motion during the summer. You can also keep the blinds closed to block out the sun at the hottest points of the day.
Consider an Upgrade
If your air conditioner has been lacking efficiency in recent years, it might be time to consider an upgrade. While replacing your cooling system might seem like a major investment, it can save you a lot of time and money in the future if you are choosing a more efficient model. It also alleviates any stress that you have regarding the potential for your HVAC system to break down when you need it most. A reputable professional can help you choose the right-sized equipment for your home and needs, providing you with reliable installation services.
If you are interested in scheduling routine service for your HVAC system before summer arrives, reach out to Sturm Heating & Air Conditioning for more information. In addition to routine maintenance, we can provide you with new furnace and air conditioner installations, indoor air quality services, and humidifier installation and repairs as well as boiler repair. Give us a call today to find out more.
