Summer is here, so you know what that means. Fun in the sun and chilling in the AC. But when your AC stops working, you’re anything but chill. Thankfully, there are things you can do to beat the heat. Depending on where you live you can try to brave the summer, but this isn’t a possibility if you have babies, elderly, or a myriad of health reasons. There are some ways to stay comfortable.
Replace the Air Filter
The air filter in your HVAC system is what catches all of the contaminants to purify the air. Over time, air filters can become clogged from dirt, dust and even pet dander. Especially if you or one of your family members have allergies, it’s important that you change the air filter regularly. Check your filters every 30 to 60 days, depending on where you live and whether you have pets in your home.
Keep the Landscape Clear
When you think about your air conditioner, the indoor unit is probably what comes to mind. While that is important, you also need to think about the external unit as well. It’s not uncommon for your outside HVAC unit to get dirty, so you need to make sure that it’s free of debris. Keep the grass around the unit cut short. In addition, cut any trees limbs that overhang the unit.
Swap Out Your Thermostat
If you still have a dial thermostat, you should consider replacing it. Smart thermostats not only save you money but also prolong the life of your unit by maintaining the right temperature in your home. Faulty thermostats are one of the main reasons HVAC services may need to be called.
Schedule Routine Maintenance
Just like in the winter, you need to schedule routine HVAC maintenance before you turn on your AC. Routine inspection can catch minor repairs before they become expensive replacements. During summer maintenance, your HVAC professional will change the filter, check the coolant and clean both the interior and exterior units.
Seal Doors and Windows
To extend the life of your unit, make sure you prep your doors and windows as well. Tiny cracks around the doors and windows allow hot air to creep in, which means your unit needs to run more frequently to maintain the right temperature. This can cause excess wear and tear on your unit, which usually results in premature system failure.
Going without air conditioning during the summer is something no one wants to go through. Be sure to follow these tips to keep yourself cool.
