Meeting the Challenge: Get Your AC Ready for Spring
As the days and nights get warmer this spring, your focus shifts from heating your home to cooling it. Getting your heating and cooling equipment ready for the changing seasons is critical if you want to maintain home comfort and energy efficiency. Use these HVAC system transition suggestions from the HVAC professionals at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to be sure your air conditioner is primed and ready for the warmer months ahead.
Change the Air Filter
Your HVAC filter slowly collects dust, pollen and other particles, decreasing airflow. This forces your system to work harder. If possible, you should replace the filter every 30-90 days, with exactly how often you change it determined by your system usage and filter type. Pick the proper size and efficiency rating for your system, because using anything other than the recommended size and type of filter can overly restrict airflow and decrease efficiency. If you’re not sure which filter to buy or how to install it into your system, ask your HVAC technician during your next scheduled maintenance appointment to demonstrate.
Look Over the Outdoor Condensing Unit
The outdoor part of your AC system that releases hot air, also known as a condensing unit, is a very important part of the cooling process. Here’s how to prep your outdoor cooling unit for another summer:
- Remove the AC cover: If you threw a cover or board over your outdoor unit to protect it during the winter, remove it before firing up the AC for the first time this spring.
- Clean the unit: Over the fall and winter, your exterior unit may have accumulated leaves, dirt and other debris. Gently give it a good rinse with a garden hose to wash away this buildup.
- Clear away nearby debris: The area around your outdoor unit needs to remain clear for optimal airflow. Remove leaves, pine needles and other debris near the condenser. Also, prune nearby flowers, shrubs and trees to maintain at least 12 to 24 inches of clearance on all sides.
- Make sure the unit is level: The concrete pad your condensing unit sits on may shift or settle as time passes, causing the unit to tilt. To avoid improper operation and premature wear, straighten the unit by wedging shims under its base. Check your adjustments with a carpenter’s level.
Adjust the Thermostat
Change your thermostat to a comfortable yet energy-efficient temperature. For the warmer months, 78 degrees F is encouraged while you’re going to be home. If you feel too hot, operate the ceiling fan to make the room feel cooler without reducing the thermostat.
Boost the temperature by 7 to 10 degrees when no one is home during the day for energy savings. To avoid losing comfort, buy a programmable thermostat and set it to resume to a higher temperature before you return home. This approach saves up to 10% on your cooling costs.
Check and Vacuum 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 buildup. Then, verify all your vents are open and unobstructed by furnishings, rugs or curtains.
In spite of what you might think, closing vents in unused rooms does not save energy; all it does is interrupt the system’s return/supply balance. To protect against excessive strain, keep no less than 80% of your supply registers open and unblocked at all times.
Find and Fix Air Leaks
Leaky windows, doors and other cracks allow hot, humid air to get into your home. To correct this problem, inspect window and door seals, using caulk and weatherstripping to seal any holes. Next, inspect the attic for insufficient insulation or breaks around 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.
Run a Test Cycle
Before the season warms up, operate your air conditioner for a little bit. Walk around your home and make sure cool air flows easily from each vent. If you discover anything wrong, call in a professional HVAC tech for AC repair to take care of the problem before it becomes a large issue.
Schedule Knowledgeable HVAC Maintenance with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning
While DIY HVAC service is advantageous, it can’t replace the complete care provided by a certified professional. Duties like measuring the refrigerant charge, tightening electrical connections and cleaning the evaporator coil call for specialized tools and training that only professionals possess.
Spring is an excellent time to plan AC maintenance, helping you to address issues quickly and prepare the system for the summer heat. Prioritize this service to appreciate the following benefits:
- Decreased energy expenses
- Fewer midseason breakdowns
- Fewer repair bills
- 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 provides reputable AC services to ensure your comfort and satisfaction this spring. Our ACE-certified technicians are trained to provide prompt, effective solutions to all your heating and cooling challenges. For skilled service that lives up to our name, reach out to us at 954-736-4314 today!
