Prepare Your HVAC System for Spring
As the temperatures climb this spring, your awareness shifts from keeping your home warm to cooling it down. Getting your heating and cooling equipment ready for the changing seasons is crucial if you want to maintain home comfort and energy efficiency. Use these HVAC system transition suggestions 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 over time traps dust, pollen and other particles, decreasing airflow. This can force your system to work harder. Ideally, you should replace the filter every one to three months, based on usage and filter type. Pick the appropriate size and efficiency rating for your system, due to the fact that using an incorrect 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 professional during your next routine tune-up to demonstrate.
Inspect the Exterior Condensing Unit
The outdoor portion of your air conditioning system that releases hot air, also known as a condensing unit, is a very important part of the cooling process. Here’s how to get your exterior AC equipment ready for another summer:
- Take off the AC cover: If you put a cover or board over your outdoor unit to protect it during the winter, remove it before firing up the air conditioning 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 rubbish. Gently spray it with a garden hose to get rid of this buildup.
- Remove neighboring debris: The area around your outdoor unit must remain clear for proper airflow. Remove leaves, pine needles and other debris near the unit. Also, cut back nearby vegetation 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 placed 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 under its base. Confirm your adjustments with a carpenter’s level.
Adjust the Thermostat
Change your thermostat to a pleasant yet energy-efficient temperature. For the warmer months, 78 degrees F is advised while you’re at home. If you feel overly warm, 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 for energy savings. To avoid compromising comfort, use a programmable thermostat and set it to resume to a higher temperature when you are going to be back home. This strategy saves up to 10% on your cooling expenses.
Assess and Clean Your Air Registers
Dust, pet hair and other debris can accumulate on supply and return registers, obstructing airflow. Use the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove this accumulation. After that, make sure all your vents are open and not covered up by furnishings, rugs or curtains.
Despite what some have been told, closing vents in unused rooms does not save energy; all it does is throw off the system’s return/supply balance. To avoid undue strain, keep a minimum of 80% of your supply registers open and unblocked at all times.
Find and Close Air Leaks
Leaky windows, doors and other gaps allow hot, humid air to find its way inside your home. To correct this problem, inspect window and door seals, using caulk and weatherstripping to seal any holes. After that, search the attic for insufficient insulation or gaps next to pipes, ductwork and light fixtures. Fix these leaks with spray foam and top them with additional insulation to cut down on unwanted air exchange through the attic floor.
Turn on Your System to Test It
Before the season heats up, run your cooling system for a little bit. Walk around your home and make sure cool air flows freely from every vent. If you see anything amiss, call in a professional HVAC tech for AC repair to correct the issue right away.
Schedule Knowledgeable HVAC Maintenance with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning
While do-it-yourself HVAC service is useful, it can’t replace the comprehensive care provided by a certified professional. Tasks like measuring the refrigerant charge and tightening electrical connections require specialized tools and training that only professionals possess.
Spring is an excellent time to schedule AC maintenance, enabling you to address issues at the beginning and prepare the system for the summer heat. Prioritize this service to experience the following benefits:
- Decreased energy costs
- Fewer midseason breakdowns
- Reduced 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 offers trusted 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 needs. For professional service that lives up to our name, reach out to us at 954-736-4314 today!