As spring arrives in New York, the weather grows warmer. This is the perfect time to get your HVAC system ready for the switch from heating to cooling. Before you have to rely on your air conditioner to keep you comfortable, it’s important to schedule maintenance to make sure your system is ready for the transition. Here is what you need to know about how to prepare your HVAC for the warmer months.
Replace Your Air Filter
You must regularly check and replace your air filters to keep your HVAC system working properly. Dust and debris can accumulate in your HVAC system during the winter. The accumulated debris makes your HVAC work harder to meet your indoor temperature demands. You should replace your air filter each month to ensure optimal performance.
When you change your filter, take a look at it. If you notice an excessive amount of dust and debris buildup, you might consider a better filter. Look at the user manual for your HVAC system to see the MERV rating and size the manufacturer recommends. If you do not have access to this document, consult an HVAC professional.
Clean Around Your Outside Unit
Your outdoor condenser unit faces exposure to the elements year-round. Leaves, dirt, sticks and other debris can build up around it. Clear away accumulated debris and spray off the outside of the condenser with a garden hose. If any plants and limbs are growing too close, trim them away.
Don’t do anything to the inside of the condenser. The HVAC technician can inspect its components to look for blockages, worn parts or damaged wiring during their spring maintenance visit. If you see something that you think might be a problem, let the technician know.
Clean Your Vents
Your vents and ducts can accumulate dirt and other debris during the winter months. Clean your vents to prepare for the transition to the cooling season. With a damp cloth, wipe away visible dirt and other debris. Make sure your vents and ducts are free from obstructions so that the air can circulate freely. If any of your vents are blocked, move furniture away to allow the cooled air to circulate. HVAC technicians can also vacuum debris and dirt from inside your ducts when they visit.
Schedule a Duct Inspection
Leaks can develop in your ducts through tiny cracks. Vibrations in your ducts occur when your system runs, which can lead cracks to developing. Each leak allows cold air to escape from your air conditioning system. This can force your AC to work harder and run more often as it tries to keep the interior of your home cool.
During an inspection, your HVAC technician can carefully examine your ducts and seal any leaks they discover. This keeps the cooled air inside where it belongs. It also helps to save you money on your cooling bills during the warmer months.
Check Your Thermostat and Air Conditioner
Your thermostat checks the indoor temperature and communicates with your HVAC system about when it needs to come on to match your preferred setting. Your air conditioner won’t work correctly if this component has problems. To get ready for the warmer months, you should check your thermostat to make sure it’s working correctly.
Since many thermostats rely on batteries, fixing a non-functioning unit might be as simple as changing its batteries. To test this component and how it’s working with your air conditioner, check the batteries and then turn it on to the cool setting. Running your air conditioner and thermostat to check them can help you identify any problems they might have before you need to rely on them.
Check the thermostat’s accuracy. If it doesn’t accurately reflect the temperature, or your air conditioner isn’t kicking on when it should, your HVAC technician can check it and determine what repairs might be needed.
Talk to Our HVAC Experts
Getting your HVAC system ready for the transition from heating to cooling helps you keep your indoor temperature comfortable year-round. At WK Mechanical, Inc., our licensed HVAC technicians have helped Middletown, NY, residents with their heating and cooling needs since 1945. We perform a range of heating and air conditioning services, including AC maintenance, repairs, installations and more.
To learn more and to schedule your service, contact us at {company_name] today!
