Summer might seem like it’s still a few months away. But before you know it, you’ll be transitioning from heating to cooling. Soon enough your air conditioner is running regularly to maintain cool temperatures. It’s wise to prep for the additional usage before temperatures heat up.
McKinley Heating Service Experts and our team of Experts can assist you. We’ve created our detailed air conditioning memberships to increase your system’s energy efficiency and trustworthiness. Our professional experience goes a long way, but there are a lot of other things you can do to protect your air conditioner. Here are four of the top ways you can prepare for air conditioning season.
1. Clean Your Air Conditioner
Don’t worry, you won’t have to take apart your system and clean every component. Our Experts take care of this during your yearly air conditioning maintenance appointment.
But cleaning the area around your air conditioner will go a long way also. We suggest:
- Clearing twigs, leaves and grass clippings from the outside of your air conditioner.
- Keeping neighboring grass and plants clipped back.
- Maintaining no less than 1 foot of clear room on all sides around your air conditioner.
If your air conditioner’s fins get blocked by dirt or yard refuse, this can decrease performance and comfort. Your air conditioner will have to work harder to give the same level of cooling. In extreme cases, it may stop working altogether and need air conditioning repair.
Your comfort and satisfaction matter to us, so we want to minimize the likelihood of repairs in the first place. A well-maintained air conditioner usually cools more efficiently, is less likely to break down and typically lasts longer.
2. Change Your Air Filter
Frequently replacing your air filter is important for your air conditioner’s wellness. During a tune-up visit, our pros inspect filters and install new ones if needed. Replacing the filter is speedy and easy. You can (and should) do it on your own whenever!
How regularly you need to get a new filter depends on:
- The style of filter you use.
- If someone in your household has asthma, allergies or other respiratory concerns.
- If you have pets.
Basic flat filters usually last for 30–60 days. More dense pleated filters can last up to 90 days. If you’re unsure if your filter should be replaced, take it out, and angle it toward the light. Replace it if you can’t see light through it.
Filters trap dust, pollen and other particles from your residence’s air, keeping airflow clean. Disregarding it will lower your residence’s indoor air quality and your air conditioner’s efficiency.
In some instances a clogged filter can even damage your system or cause it to malfunction. Regularly changing it will keep the inside of your air conditioner cleaner and airflow more balanced.
If someone in your family is dealing with allergies, asthma or other respiratory issues, ask our Experts about how a HEPA filter can help.
3. Test Your Thermostat and Smoke Detectors
Now is the perfect time to evaluate other essential parts of your air conditioner and other safety systems.
If you have a programmable thermostat, check that it’s running right. If the batteries are running out, get new ones.
For additional control and convenience, think about upgrading to a smart thermostat. They make using less energy simpler. And a few models can even tell you if there’s a problem with your air conditioner or if your air filter needs replacing.
Even though they’re not part of your air conditioning system, now is a good time to check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Making sure they’re still good delivers peace of mind and an extra layer of safety.
4. Keep Heat Outside
One of the wisest ways to increase energy-efficient cooling is to decrease the concentration of outdoor heat getting into your home. Using quality window treatments including blackout curtains, honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, can stop the sun from impacting indoor temperatures.
Here are several other ways to keep your house cold without turning down the thermostat:
- Turn on ceiling fans when you’re in the room.
- Run your bathroom fan to get rid of heat and humidity when you shower.
- Keep air vents uncovered to ensure ample airflow.
- Use caulk and weatherstripping to seal your doors and windows.
Depend on McKinley Heating Service Experts for Professional Air Conditioning Maintenance
Our guide will help your air conditioner operate smoother this summer. But the best way you can increase efficiency is with air conditioning maintenance. Some perks of this service involve:
- Worry-free cooling.
- Possibly lower cooling expenses.
- Likely lengthening your air conditioner’s lifetime.
- Keeping your valuable manufacturer’s warranty valid.
Make sure your air conditioning is prepared for this summer! Contact the heating and cooling Experts at McKinley Heating Service Experts now! Call us at 780-800-7092 to schedule your maintenance appointment or to learn more about our HVAC membership plans.