How to Prepare Your HVAC System This Summer

Central Heating System for home heating

Hot summer days that we’ve been experiencing lately are a good reminder as to why it’s important to properly prepare our HVAC systems for the summer months. There are a few things homeowners need to do on top of simply removing the unit’s cover and ensuring the filters are in good working order. Fortunately, this handy guide will walk you through just what you need to do to keep your HVAC system firing on all cylinders. Here are some simple steps you can take to ensure your HVAC system is running smoothly all summer long.

Why Prepare Your HVAC System for the Summer?

Air conditioning is a necessity in this day and age. Especially when a heat wave hits, it’s important that your home is being effectively cooled. Like any machine, you can’t just leave it sitting idle for much of the year and expect it to function at a moment’s notice. Having a basic knowledge of how your central AC functions will allow you to develop a plan to keep your system running efficiently and effectively. The system’s cooling methods begin with the evaporator – this component soaks in heat and converts it to gas.

This gas is then sent to the system’s compressor, which can be found outside in the exterior unit. The HVAC system’s condenser and compressor work in conjunction to drive away heat to allow for cooling. What we are trying to accomplish here is to best prepare the system’s cooling components to minimize the strain they will experience when running in extreme heat. Not only will this keep your system running more effectively and efficiently, but you should also notice some savings on your energy bill.

North Wind HVAC Eliminate Dust on Filters and Vents

Eliminate Dust on Filters and Vents

Did you remember to change the air filters as you prepared your HVAC system for another summer season? Don’t worry if you didn’t, because it’s not too late. It is vital that we remove as much dust and debris as this can prevent cool air from entering our homes. You should be swapping out your old filters with new, fresh ones at least twice a year (while also inspecting them on a monthly basis). It’s a rather straightforward and inexpensive process.

The reason for this is because the dirtier the filter, the harder your HVAC system has to work to deliver cool air into the home. When replacing your air filters, you should also take this opportunity to clear any debris that may have been caught in the vents. Best industry practices call for dusting our vents at least twice a week during the summer months to optimize flow.

North Wind HVAC Keep Your House Cool

Remove Debris from Outdoor Areas

Once you’ve replaced your air filters, now it’s time to prepare the outside area surrounding the HVAC system. It is recommended that the area surrounding the unit is clear of any materials. Look for things like tree trimmings and fallen leaves.

Air should be able to flow freely around the unit. It is also important to remove any winter covers you have used before turning on the system – failing to do so can be disastrous.

North Wind HVAC Schedule Professional Maintenance

Keep Your House Cool

There are a few other tactics you can employ that will help keep the cool air inside your home. Energy-efficient windows are a great way to keep the house a few degrees cooler. Consider blackout curtains as well, as the thick material is good at keeping heat from penetrating through. Lastly, make sure the window and door seals are in good working order.

Advances in technology also help – you should consider getting a smart thermostat for the home – this allows you to remotely and precisely control the temperature of the home. These measures will cost you a little bit up front, but the amount of savings you’ll see on your utility bill will make it all worth it.

North Wind HVAC Contact the Pros

Schedule Professional Maintenance

One of the best things you can do for your HVAC system is bring in a professional technician for routine service and health checks.

These tune-ups are the time for techs to test the components and ensure all of the components are functioning as intended. They will also be able to find any issues and diagnose the problem.

North Wind HVAC Schedule Professional Service

Contact the Pros

By implementing the above measures, coupled with regular maintenance from a certified HVAC specialist, your system will be keeping you and your family cool with ease all summer long.

The professionals at Northwind HVAC have become a reputable name in the industry thanks to years of hard work and dedication. When you are on the lookout for “hvac services near me,” be sure to give our team a call at Northwind HVAC.