Maintaining your HVAC system in the summer heat
With Richmond temperatures reaching over 90° fahrenheit in the summer, having a functioning HVAC system to keep you cool in your home is an essential. Maintaining your system, or troubleshooting signs of a problem early on if it isn’t functioning properly, may actually be simpler than you think. Here are five key tips to keep you on track for a cool and relaxing summer at home this year.
1. Replace the air filter. It sounds so simple to do, yet it’s even simpler to forget. Air filters should be changed every one to two months, in addition to regularly cleaning off the air registers. Failing to change out the filter regularly can cause a build-up of dirt, dust and other debris, restricting the circulation and quality of the air in your home. Changing your filter can also help to decrease your energy bill.
2. Don’t forget about your fan. That’s right! It may seem counterintuitive, given the purpose of an HVAC system is to cool down your home. However, as temperatures rise and you crank your thermostat settings lower and lower to compensate, you’re also increasing the strain placed on your system. Rather than drastically lowering your thermostat, choose a steady temperature at which to keep it while you are home, then turn on a fan to help circulate the cooler air throughout the house.
3. Clean the outdoor unit. Similar to changing the air filter, a build-up of dirt and debris on and around your unit and its condenser coils can force the entire system to work harder to do its job. Whether you clean it yourself or hire a professional, you’ll want to start off every summer with this task (although it never hurts to check it more often!).
4. Check for excess condensation. Water accumulating on the floor by the unit or evaporator coil could potentially signify a bigger problem. A blockage of mold, mildew or algae in the condensate lines can overflow the drip pan. Luckily, you can either hire a professional to check and clean the lines, or you can do it yourself, to keep things running smoothly.
5. Regularly service the system. In order to prevent additional problems or catch existing ones early on, it’s important to have your HVAC system serviced regularly. Newer units can receive professional maintenance once a year, whereas older units may need servicing every six months.