Before the upcoming hot summer season in Hudson Valley, there are various things that you’ll want to do to prepare your home. One of your biggest focuses should be on your cooling system. We’re going to go over some of the most essential steps you can take to ensure that your air conditioning system is ready to take on the hot summer weather ahead.
Change Air Filter
One of the first things that you’ll want to do is put in a new air filter. Be sure to get two filters so that you have an extra one for future replacements. If you suffer from allergies during the summer season, you may want to consider getting a beefier filter that’s capable of removing more airborne particles than the average filter. Aim for a filter with a MERV rating between 10 and 13 for optimal filtration.
Clean Condenser Unit
In order for your air conditioning system to operate efficiently, the outdoor condenser unit needs to have adequate airflow. If debris like leaves and twigs get blown up against the side of the unit, it can restrict the flow of air and cause inefficient system operation. Take a few moments and clean up any debris against your outdoor condenser unit. Be sure to trim back any shrubbery or low-hanging branches that are within a few feet of the unit for optimal results.
Schedule Maintenance Service
Scheduling professional AC maintenance service is one key step to ensure that your system is ready to take on the hot summer weather. This is where a technician will come out and test your system, clean it, lubricate it, and do so much more to ensure that it’s operating at its peak efficiency level. You never want to skip this service as it can void the warranty on your AC and leave you paying more for your energy bills due to inefficient operation.
Switch Thermostat Settings
Ensure your thermostat is set to auto instead of on so that your blower fan isn’t constantly running. Move it from heating mode over to cooling. Using a smart or programmable thermostat can allow you to set specific temperatures for different hours and days of the week. When you can be more precise with your thermostat settings, you can better maximize your comfort and energy savings throughout the entire summer.
Change Ceiling Fan Settings
Using ceiling fans is a great way to help create a breeze so that you feel cooler. In fact, ceiling fans can make a room feel around 10 degrees colder. This means that you can run your cooling system less often while still remaining just as comfortable. Opt for switching your ceiling fans to spin in a counterclockwise or forward direction. Make sure that you give them all a test run to ensure that they’re blowing air downward instead of upward.
Seal Off Air Leaks
Air leaks in your exterior walls can create a big problem for your air conditioning system. These leaks allow hot air to penetrate into your home and increase the temperature. To prevent this from happening, it only makes sense to seal off those air leaks so that the hot air can’t get in. You could use weatherstripping, spray foam insulation, or even caulking to seal up those leaks. Leaks are most common around door and window frames on your exterior walls.
Check Attic Vents
It’s important to check the vents in your attic. All of them should be completely open to allow optimal airflow. This allows the attic to be at the same temperature as the air outside instead of being extremely hotter when it’s confined without ventilation. If you’re worried about any sort of pests or other critters getting in your attic vents, you can use a wire mesh to cover up the vent while still allowing adequate airflow.
Check Air Vents
Now is the perfect time to go ahead and take a moment and walk through all the rooms of your home to assess your air vents. Make sure that both supply and return vents are fully open. You may even want to consider popping the vents out and giving them a good washing before the start of the summer air conditioning season.
Exceptional AC Maintenance Service
WK Mechanical, Inc. offers exceptional AC services for Orange County, NY and throughout the Hudson Valley. In addition to tune-ups we can also help with all your AC repair, replacement, and installation needs. Call us today to book your next service appointment or to ask about our WK Comfort Club Maintenance Agreement. We want to keep you comfortable all season long!
