HVAC & AC System Summer Maintenance Tips
Summer is a time for fun, relaxation, and enjoying the warm weather. But as temperatures rise, so does the need for a well-functioning HVAC and air conditioning system to keep your home cool and comfortable. Proper maintenance of your HVAC system is crucial to ensure it runs efficiently throughout the summer months.
In this article, we'll explore essential summer maintenance tips for your HVAC system, helping you stay cool while highlighting their importance in your system's performance.
Replace Your Furnace Filters
One of the most important HVAC system maintenance items is making sure you’re replacing your furnace filters regularly. Over time, filters become clogged with dust, dirt, and allergens, which can restrict airflow and reduce your system's efficiency. During the summer, this material that’s blocking airflow through the filter media, makes your HVAC system work harder to keep your home cool, making clean filters even more essential.
Pro Tip: Check your furnace filters every month and replace them every 1-3 months, depending on your filter type and home conditions. High-efficiency filters, like HEPA filters, may require more frequent replacements to maintain optimal performance. And if you have pets that shed, this will also impact filter lifespans as the fur will block the filter media.
Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection
Before the summer heat hits full force, schedule a professional HVAC inspection. A certified technician can thoroughly inspect your system, identify potential issues, and perform necessary maintenance tasks. This proactive approach can prevent costly breakdowns and ensure your system runs efficiently all season long. Also, techs are extremely busy in July and August, so don’t wait until you have a problem - deal with it before something breaks down.
During the inspection, the technician will:
- Inspect & clean air intake Inspect and air filters
- Check for unusual sounds or vibrations when blower is running
- Check condensation draining systems are not blocked and flowing properly
- Clean and lubricate motors if applicable
- Inspect ductwork
- Check for any worn screws, gaskets, or latches
- Inspect pumps if applicable
- Check electrical hardware and connections
- Inspect safety controls
- Inspect exterior equipment (AC condenser)
- Clean & lubricate damper controls
- Validate and calibrate thermostat
Clean the Outdoor AC Condenser
Your AC system's outdoor unit (i.e. the condenser) will accumulate dirt, leaves, and debris over time, all of which can obstruct airflow and reduce system efficiency. To keep your things running smoothly, make sure you’re covering it over the winter, and clean it before you start to use it for the season.
Steps to Clean the Outdoor Unit:
- Turn off the power to the unit (there should be a main shut off switch outside, right by it)
- Clean and remove any debris around the unit
- Use a garden hose to gently rinse the fins and coils, being careful not to bend them If needed, use a soft brush to remove stubborn dirt in between the fins
Check and Clean Air Vents and Ducts
Air vents and ducts play a vital role in distributing cool air throughout your home. Over time, they can become clogged with household dust and debris, hindering airflow and forcing your HVAC system to work harder. Regularly check and clean your air vents and ducts to ensure optimal performance. Pay for professional duct cleaning every 2 years or yearly if you’ve got dogs and cats and want to ensure you’re not kicking dander and fur back into the air.
Ensure Proper Thermostat Settings (Summer)
Your thermostat is the control center for your HVAC system. Setting it correctly can significantly impact your system's efficiency and your energy bills. During the summer, follow these tips to optimize your thermostat settings:
- Set it to a temperature that strikes a balance between comfort and energy efficiency.
- Raise the temperature when you're away to save energy.
Use a programmable thermostat that can automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule, ensuring your home is cool when you need it and saving energy when you don't.
Inspect and Clean the Condensate Drain Line
Your HVAC system's condensate drain line removes moisture from the system, preventing it from accumulating inside your home. Over time, the drain line can become clogged with algae, mold, or debris, leading to water damage or even a flood. Regularly inspect and clean the condensate drain line to keep your system running smoothly.
How to Clean the Condensate Drain Line:
- Locate the drain line, typically near the indoor unit. Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove any clogs or debris.
- Flush the line with a mixture of vinegar and water to kill any algae or mold.
Seal and Insulate Your Home
Proper sealing and insulation are essential for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature and reducing the workload on your HVAC system. Inspect your home for any gaps or cracks around doors, windows, and other openings, and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping as required. And on a broader scale, make sure your home is adequately insulated to keep the cool air in and the hot air out - especially in attic spaces.
Benefits of Sealing and Insulating
Your Home: Improved overall energy efficiency Lower energy bills Enhanced comfort Reduced strain on your HVAC system Use Fans to Help with Cooling Ceiling and other types of fans are a great way to supplement your ac system and improve overall cooling efficiency. By circulating the air, fans can help distribute cool air more evenly throughout your home, allowing you to set your thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort.
Tips for Using Fans: Set the fan to rotate counterclockwise during the summer to create a cooling breeze Turn off fans when you leave a room to save energy Clean fan blades regularly to prevent dust buildup
Keep Heat-Producing Appliances Away from the Thermostat
Heat-producing appliances, such as lamps, televisions, and ovens, can affect your thermostat's readings, causing your HVAC system to work harder than necessary. To ensure accurate temperature readings and efficient system operation, keep these appliances away from the thermostat.
Additional Tips: Use blinds or curtains to block direct sunlight from heating your home Cook during cooler parts of the day to reduce indoor heat Consider
Upgrading Your HVAC System
If your HVAC system is more than 10-15 years old, it may be time to consider upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient model. Modern HVAC systems offer improved performance, lower energy consumption, and advanced features such as smart thermostats and variable-speed motors. While the initial investment may be significant, the long-term savings on energy bills and reduced maintenance costs can make it worthwhile.
Benefits of Upgrading Your HVAC System:
- Increased energy efficiency Improved indoor air quality
- Enhanced comfort and temperature control
Lower energy bills
Proper summer maintenance of your HVAC system is essential for keeping your home cool, comfortable, and energy-efficient. By following these tips, you can ensure your system runs smoothly throughout the summer, preventing costly breakdowns and extending the lifespan of equipment.Remember, regularly cleaning or replacing your furnace filters is one of the most crucial steps in maintaining your system's performance.
With these simple yet effective maintenance practices, you can enjoy a cool and comfortable home all summer long!
