Increasing Your HVAC Efficiency for Summertime Temperatures

Your HVAC system is running around the clock to keep your home at the optimal temperature. Over time, this wears out the different parts of the system, which reduces the overall efficiency and may lead to problems down the road. Summer is an especially taxing time for your HVAC as the system will attempt to keep your house at a lower temperature despite the external heat. Add the challenge of humidity, weather, system wear, and heat waves to the mix and you have a potent set of potential problems on your hands. Get your HVAC ready for summer and you’ll never have to sweat the heat. 

Changing Air Filters and Checking HVAC Vents

The first and most important step to ensuring the health of your HVAC unit is optimal is to check the air filters. Clean air filters maintain unrestricted airflow throughout the unit, which improves performance and helps push more cool air throughout the home. If fresh air filters aren’t an option, cleaning dirty filters goes a long way in optimizing your cooling system. Check for dirt or hair, rinse them out, and put them back in to keep the clean air flowing. Dirty filters strain the system and consume more energy, costing you more money each month and lowering the quality of the air in your home. 

While you’re at it, checking the vents can help too. If there is visible dust or debris, clear it away to keep the outbound air fresh. Clean air means your system isn’t too taxed and your home stays healthy. If there are vent blockages deeper than surface level, a specialist like Saylors Systems can come in to handle the maintenance for you. 

Inspecting and Cleaning Your Condenser

Some homes have condensers, which are external air conditioning units that lower the temperature across your home. These usually look like metal barrels with a large fan on the top. If your home has one of these systems in place, you’ll want to inspect and clean it before summer weather hits. Use a garden hose to rinse away any leaves, dirt, or debris from the grille to allow proper airflow, then clean off the fan fins with a brush or cloth. Remove anything within two feet of the unit as well to avoid potential airflow blockages. If you notice any leaks, bent fins, or loud noises, call a professional in to get the unit looked at as soon as possible. It would be terrible if the system broke down when you needed it most. 

Take a look at the drain line on your condenser as well, as this can get clogged with dirt or debris and cause water to back up and leak from the unit. If this isn’t addressed soon enough, this could lead to water damage in your home, foundational damage, or mold growth. 

Final Checks on Your Thermostat and Ductwork

The final aspects of your HVAC home inspection should include your ductwork. Leaks or improper insulation will negatively impact the unit’s efficiency, use up more energy, and create an uncomfortable living environment. Duct leaks can cost hundreds of dollars in wasted energy bills and lead to potential damage within your home. You can use metal tape or mastic sealant to handle leaks that you can reach on your own, but if you notice signs of mold, vermin, or excessive debris, call in a professional. 

A simple but effective tip for summer preparation is testing your thermostat and running your HVAC to ensure both work properly. If you turn your HVAC on during a hot day and it isn’t running properly or your thermostat is off, the house won’t get cooler and you’ll spend extra time making fixes that could have been done in more temperate weather. Preparation is the key to a comfortable home. 

Handling Your HVAC Summer Needs Year Round

Saylors Systems Heating and Air handles all your HVAC needs so you can enjoy all seasons with comfort. If you encounter HVAC issues while preparing your system for summer, such as ductwork leaks or damaged condensers, our team has the tools and experience to provide a cost-effective solution in no time. Prepare for the heat without the stress when you partner with Saylors Systems Heating and Air.