Summer is already upon us and it’s only going to getting hotter over the coming months. It’s time to act on ensuring your cooling and air-conditioning system is ready to combat the sweltering conditions ahead. Here are eight ways to ensure your HVAC unit is up to the task of keeping you cool:

Step 1 – Change your filter: Though critical, changing your HVAC filter is one of the easiest tasks to complete in order to safeguard your system from operating inefficiently. HVAC filters become clogged with dust and debris throughout their lifetime, subsequently restricting airflow and reducing the overall efficiency of your system. This leads to higher energy bills, potential breakdowns and ultimately a suboptimal temperature in your living space. Be sure to inspect your filters on a monthly basis and replace them as needed.

Step 2 – Remove debris: Rain and snowfall over the winter months bring with it multiple forms of debris which can obstruct your outdoor cooling system. Foreign material such as dirt, leaves and straw, along with other debris can restrict the unit’s airflow but more importantly pose a fire hazard if not dealt with accordingly. Before the summer months become warmer, clean your outdoor unit and remove any accumulated debris to ensure your HVAC system is operating at its peak efficiency.

Step 3 – Use a programmable thermostat: Programmable thermostats help save energy which in turn keeps money in your back pocket. By automatically adjusting the temperature of your home based on your schedule, you can program the thermostat to turn up the temperature when you’re away from home and turn it down when you’re back. This means you maintain the perfect temperature at home and have extra money to spend on things you’d rather be doing.

Step 4 – Fans: Using fans helps circulate air throughout your home, making it feel cooler. Ceiling fans are particularly effective at cooling a room, and as an added bonus, they use less energy than your HVAC unit.

Step 5 – Cover your windows: Covering your windows with blinds or curtains can help block out the sun and prevent outside air from getting in. Blocking out the harsh summer rays helps maintain a cool home and greatly reduces the workload on your HVAC unit.

Step 6 – Clean the vents: Much like your outdoor HVAC unit, over time, your vents can become clogged with dust and debris. This ultimately affects your system’s efficiency and increasing your overall power bill if not dealt with in a timely manner. Make sure to clean your vents to ensure that air is flowing freely before the hotter days of summer are upon us.

Step 7 – Turn off other appliances: This is a really helpful practice to get into not only for summer but year-round. Other appliances in your home, such as an oven or dryer, can generate heat and make your home feel warmer whilst also increasing your power consumption. Try to avoid using these appliances during the hottest parts of the day to reduce the workload on your HVAC unit.

Step 8 – Upgrade your unit: If your HVAC unit is old or inefficient, it’s time to consider upgrading to a newer, more efficient model. A new unit will help you save energy and money in the long run, while also keeping your home cooler and more comfortable during the summer months. The old saying, “you have to spend money to make money” has never been truer than in this instant.

By following these eight steps, your HVAC unit will be your best friend this summer and keep you, your family and your home cool and comfortable all season long. Don’t wait until the heat arrives to take care of your HVAC unit – start preparing now to avoid potential breakdowns and higher energy bills.

Contact us today at (519) 664-2008 for assistance with your HVAC unit this summer!