11 HVAC Maintenance Tips for Summer

11 HVAC Maintenance Tips To Complete Before Your Turn on Your Air Conditioner

The air conditioning season in Texas is much longer than the heater season. Finding refuge from high temps and high humidity is what we come to expect from our homes and office.

Sometimes the transition from heating to cooling is short, so here are some steps to take to make sure your system is ready for what lies ahead before turning on the AC.

11 Steps to Follow Before You Turn on the Air Conditioner This Summer

Indoor Equipment Vital to Your Overall Well Being

Begin with your thermostat in the “off” position with the temperature turned to a high setting (around 80 degrees), then check the following:

  1. Look at the thermostat. Is it outdated? There are three types of thermostats:
    1. Manuel or mechanical thermostats—you physically move the dial
    2. Programmable thermostats—you set a timer that makes changes to the system, based on whether anyone is home
    3. Smart thermostats—linked to smartphones, programmable, but you can change settings from a smartphone should plans change

A new thermostat should achieve HVAC Maintenance payback very quickly.

  1. Inspect any exposed ductwork for wear or gaps. This will lead to energy efficiencies and potential hot and cold spots.
  2. Check air vents and returns. Make sure drapes, furniture or accessories are not covering openings. This adds stress to the HVAC system and can lead to component failure.
  3. Check the drain line. Cooling coils that come in contact with humid air will collect the humidity in a drain pan. Clean the drain pan prior to turning on the system to ensure collected dirt does not clog the drain line.

    Pour one cup of chlorine bleach down the drain line, then flush with a gallon of water to keep the drain line unobstructed.

  4. Change your air filter quarterly. The filter should be changed every three months or as recommended by the manufacturer. Changing the filter at the beginning of the cooling season is a good reminder.
  5. Check the electrical circuit to make sure the unit is on. Check the circuit breaker or fuse box.
  6. Be sure the power is powered “on.”The furnace and air conditioner are usually one unit.
  7. Inspect the outdoor condenser unit. The outdoor condenser unit needs significant ventilation. Air is drawn in and up through the unit. Leaves, tall grass, and vines can block the floor of air, making the system work harder or fail.

    Make sure the unit is intact and nothing has blown inside the condenser.

  8. Inspect the outdoor refrigerant lines. These lines should be enclosed with insulation to ensure system efficiency. If you see damage or wear, call a professional for service before using your system.
  9. Inspect the outdoor wiring for wear or damage. Repairs to wiring should be done by a professional.
  10. Air conditioner units have a life span. Proper maintenance will extend the life of most components, but eventually, you will need to retire the system.

    The bright side is, new AC units are considerably more energy-efficient and can save 20 to 40% on your cooling energy cost.

Conclusion

Prior to the transition between heating and cooling is a proactive step to ensure your AC system functions properly and efficiently.

“Hoping and wishing” is not an HVAC Maintenance plan of action. Inspect your system and get simple repairs or call for service before hot weather arrives.

Want more information about HVAC Maintenance? We Can Help!

If you are considering an HVAC Maintenance program, call us at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email.

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