Spring Forward: HVAC System Transition Strategies for Springtime
As the weather warms this spring, your awareness shifts from home heating to air conditioning. Making sure your HVAC system is prepared for the changing seasons is critical if you expect to maintain home comfort and energy efficiency. Use these HVAC system transition strategies from the HVAC specialists at McKinley Heating Service Experts to be sure your AC is primed and ready for the warmer months ahead.
Inspect the Air Filter
Your HVAC filter gradually traps dust, pollen and other particles, minimizing airflow. This requires your system to work harder. If possible, you should replace the filter every 30-90 days, depending on usage and filter type. Pick the recommended size and efficiency rating for your system, since using the wrong filter can overly restrict airflow and diminish efficiency. If you’re not sure which filter to buy or how to install it into your system, ask your HVAC professional during your next scheduled maintenance appointment to demonstrate.
Look Over the Outside Condensing Unit
The outdoor unit of your HVAC system that expels hot air, also known as a condensing unit, is a necessary part of the cooling process. Here’s how to get your exterior AC equipment ready for another summer:
- Take off the AC cover: If you threw a cover or board over your outdoor unit to protect it during the cold months, remove it before firing up the air conditioner for the first time this spring.
- Clean the unit: Over the fall and winter, your exterior unit may have accumulated leaves, dirt and other rubbish. You can give it a good rinse with a garden hose to wash away this buildup.
- Get rid of surrounding debris: The area around your outdoor unit must remain clear for ideal airflow. Remove leaves, pine needles and other debris close to the condenser. Also, trim nearby vegetation to ensure at least 12 to 24 inches of clearance on all sides.
- Make sure the unit is level: The concrete pad your condensing unit is placed on may shift or settle with time, causing the unit to tilt. To avoid improper operation and premature wear, level the unit by wedging shims under its base. Verify your efforts with a carpenter’s level.
Increase the Temperature on the Thermostat
Change your thermostat to a comfy yet energy-efficient temperature. For the hotter months, 78 degrees F is advised while you’re going to be home. If you feel too hot, operate the ceiling fan to make the room feel cooler without lowering the thermostat.
Increase the temperature by 7 to 10 degrees when the house is empty during the day to save on power costs. To avoid losing comfort, buy a programmable thermostat and set it to resume to a higher temperature when you come home. This method saves up to 10% on your cooling costs.
Assess and Clear Out Your Air Registers
Dust, pet hair and other particles can build up on supply and return registers, obstructing airflow. Use the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to clear away this mess. Then, verify all your vents are open and not covered up by things like rugs or curtains.
In spite of what you might think, closing vents in unused rooms does not use less energy; all it does is throw off the system’s return/supply balance. To protect against excessive strain, keep at least 80% of your supply registers open and unblocked at all times.
Detect and Close Air Leaks
Leaky windows, doors and other gaps enable hot, humid air to sneak inside your home. To correct this concern, inspect window and door seals, using caulk and weatherstripping to seal any holes. After that, search the attic for insufficient insulation or spaces next to pipes, ductwork and light fixtures. Close these leaks with spray foam and top them with additional insulation to reduce unwanted air exchange through the attic floor.
Turn on Your System to Test It
Before the season really gets hot, turn on your air conditioner for a short while. Walk around your home and make sure cool air flows effortlessly from every vent. If you find anything wrong, schedule AC repair to take care of the problem before it becomes a large issue.
Schedule Expert HVAC Maintenance with McKinley Heating Service Experts
While DIY upkeep is advantageous, it can’t replace the comprehensive care provided by a certified professional. Duties like measuring the refrigerant charge, tightening electrical connections and cleaning the evaporator coil call for specialized tools and training that only specialists possess.
Spring is a great time to schedule AC maintenance, enabling you to address issues early on and prepare the system for the summer heat. Prioritize this service to experience the following perks:
- Reduced energy expenses
- Fewer midseason breakdowns
- Lower repair expenditures
- Better home comfort
- Longer system life span
- Protected warranty coverage
Why Choose McKinley Heating Service Experts for Your HVAC Needs in Edmonton?
McKinley Heating Service Experts provides reputable AC services to ensure your comfort and satisfaction this spring. Our certified technicians are trained to provide fast, effective solutions to all your heating and cooling needs. For professional service that lives up to our name, phone 780-800-7092 today!
