As a homeowner, you want your HVAC system to run smoothly all summer. While you should leave most repairs to the professionals, there are still some things you can do to help keep your air conditioner working well. Read on for some tips on how to prepare your HVAC system and keep it running during summer in Columbus, GA.
1. Adjust Your Thermostat
It might be tempting to leave your thermostat at the same temperature all day so you can stay cool no matter how hot it gets. However, doing so can actually drive up your energy bills and put strain on the system, as it’ll need to work harder during the hot parts of the day to cool your home. Instead, try adjusting your thermostat a little higher when it’s hottest, keeping it at a comfortable level — even just a few degrees can make a difference in how much energy your HVAC uses.
2. Change the Air Filter
Air filters are a crucial part of your HVAC system because they clean the air within your home. They also help extend the life of your system by preventing dust and other contaminants from entering it. It’s easy to forget to change the filter out, so make sure to check your filter monthly and change it as needed.
3. Clean Any Debris from Around the Outside Condenser
Remove any debris from around the unit; obstructed airflow can force your HVAC to work harder than it needs to, which causes a loss of efficiency. Trim back any plants from around the unit. There should be about 3 feet of clearance around this outdoor unit.
4. Install a Smart Thermostat
While many thermostats are programmable, smart thermostat technology takes it even further. In addition to programming specific temperatures throughout the day, you can control smart thermostats when you’re not home. They can also learn your energy habits and adjust themselves throughout the day to conserve energy while keeping your home cool.
Many smart thermostats integrate with your phone’s location services, too, and can adjust the temperatures when you’re not home. Some can even alert you if something is wrong with your system. They can help you save money on heating and cooling costs while keeping everyone comfortable in their homes.
5. Schedule Regular Maintenance with Professionals
If you’re not sure how well your HVAC system is working or if there are any issues in need of repair, then schedule a maintenance appointment with professionals. A professional HVAC technician can help you prepare your system for summer by inspecting ducts, checking for leaks, and ensuring everything runs smoothly. If something does need replacement or repair, they’ll be able to tell you what parts will work best for your home and budget.
6. Check For Odd Smells and Sounds
If your system is making strange noises or if there’s an odd smell coming from it, you may have a problem with your compressor or condenser fan motor. To ensure that your unit stays clean and works correctly throughout the summer, have a professional come out and inspect it.
7. Clean Your Drain Pipe
The drain pipe is an important part of your HVAC system. It allows collected water to flow out of your air conditioner so that it doesn’t overflow and damage other parts of your home. However, if it becomes clogged, the drain pan may overflow, causing damage to your home. A technician will check and clean this condensate drain pipe with a maintenance appointment.
If you’re in Columbus, GA, contact Sensigreen for help preparing your HVAC system for the coming months. We’ll come over to inspect your unit, take important steps to maintain your system and possibly repairs to prevent emergencies, and teach you how to save money on air conditioning costs in your home.
Image provided by iStock
