With summer already half over, you’ve probably been making the most out of your AC, especially if you live somewhere hot. However, with at least eight more weeks of warm weather on the horizon, you need to make sure your HVAC system is up for the challenge.
When your home and HVAC system work together, you can save a lot of money on your monthly energy bill. If you're trying to avoid replacing your unit, you need to ensure that it’s not only well maintained, but also not overworked.
Below are seven tips from Farmer's Air to keep your AC running at peak performance all summer long:
Focus on Your Filter
Above all else, you need to keep an eye on your air filter. Depending on the type of HVAC system you have in your home, you either use a disposable or a semi-permanent filter. With disposable filters, it’s important to replace your air filter every 30 days, especially if you have pets or smoke indoors.
Clogged air filters can cause premature, excessive wear and tear on your unit. In addition, your indoor air quality can deteriorate. We provide top-notch Hilton Head HVAC Services, and they will replace your filters so you know your home is circulating clean, healthy air.
Maintain Your Exterior
Unless you live in an apartment, you should head outside and have a look around your HVAC unit. Make sure your HVAC’s surroundings are free of debris. If there are any tree limbs, weeds, or plants blocking the unit, you need to remove them. It’s never a good idea to let shrubbery encroach on your unit! Removing grass clippings from your unit is also a must.
Even though it’s still hot outside, autumn will arrive sooner than you think. This means, that in addition to keeping vegetation overgrowth in check, you also need to keep falling leaves out of the unit.
Finally, trim back any dangling tree limbs that can get caught in the fan motor. We can't tell you how many times we've gotten a service call for this exact problem. Maintain your HVAC unit’s home, and your home climate will be better managed.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
One of the best things you can do to maintain a healthy HVAC system--install a programmable thermostat. New programmable thermostat models make it possible to customize when you want your AC on and what temperature you want it! You can even pre-set it for vacations, so when you return, your home will be already at a comfortable temperature when you arrive.
Running a climate-controlled thermostat schedule not only saves you money, but can also prevent your air conditioning unit from working too hard. This is especially beneficial during the hottest months of summer.
Use Your Fans
Make the most out of your air conditioner by positioning fans throughout your home. If you have ceiling fans, set them to rotate clockwise. This way, the air flows downward and prevents excess heat from rising to the upper levels in your home. When temperatures finally begin to drop, simply reverse your ceiling fan’s direction to spin the opposite direction.
In addition, you should use smaller fans throughout your home to maximize air circulation. Small tabletop fans can be easily moved from room to room to boost your air conditioner’s cooling efficiency.
Window Treatments
If your home has a lot of windows, invest in room-darkening window treatments. Because heat can transfer through glass, it’s not uncommon for certain rooms in your home to be hotter than others. Your AC then has to kick into overdrive to keep these areas as cool as the rest of your home. Look for window treatments that keep the sun out during the hottest part of the day to better maintain your indoor climate!
Clean Your Vents
In addition to cleaning your air filter and clearing outdoor obstructions, you also need to keep an eye on your vents. It is likely that dust and debris will build up over time, which can hinder proper airflow through your ducts. If you notice little puffs of dust when your air conditioning unit kicks on, your vents need cleaning. To keep clean air moving freely, basic HVAC maintenance is recommended. It will ensure that there are no obstructions causing your unit to work harder than it needs to.
Consider an Upgrade
Unfortunately, there are instances when your current AC just can’t do the job anymore. If this is the case--it’s time for a HVAC upgrade. Keeping an old unit that isn’t functioning efficiently will end up costing you more money on energy bills and repairs than it will cost you to maintain a new unit.
Today, HVAC models are more energy-efficient, which will save you money in the long run. If you need a new HVAC system, the professionals at Farmer’s Air will find the proper unit for your home so you can start saving.
Even though summer is starting to wind down, there are still plenty of hot days ahead. Take the time to perform simple HVAC check-ups, because when your system is maintained it will work better for you all year long.
At Dyess Air & Plumbing, whether you need basic maintenance or an extensive repair, we're here to help. Contact us today, at (843) 242-0855, for more information!