The most practical and essential HVAC tips for summer include replacing filters and cleaning condenser coils, reducing heat from other appliances, adjusting the thermostat wisely, and other important steps.
It is critical to follow some best practices to ensure your air conditioner runs efficiently and effectively throughout the hottest months. In this article, you will find 18 of the best HVAC tips to help you stay cool this summer. Read on and learn the best air conditioning tips for summer!
How To Help Your Air Conditioner Keep Up In Summer? 18 Tips!
The primary air conditioner tips for summer are to replace filters, check and clean ductwork, clean coils, check the thermostat, install a programmable thermostat, clear away vegetation, keep vents unobstructed, maximize airflow, clean the outdoor and indoor unit, and more!
Read the complete list below to discover the detailed tips for optimizing your HVAC system in the summer.
- Replace Filters: Regularly changing your HVAC filters ensures better air quality and improves system efficiency. Aim to replace them every 1-3 months, depending on usage.
- Clean Ductwork: Clean ductwork can significantly improve airflow and the overall efficiency of your HVAC system. Inspect and clean ducts annually to remove dust, debris, and potential blockages.
- Clean Condenser Coils: Dirty coils can reduce your system's cooling capacity. Clean the condenser coils at least once a year to maintain optimal performance.
- Check The Thermostat: Ensure your thermostat is properly set and functioning correctly.
- Install A Programmable Thermostat: It allows you to set your HVAC system to operate more efficiently when you are not home, saving energy and reducing costs – it is the perfect thermostat for vacations.
- Clear Away Vegetation: Keep at least two feet of clearance around your outdoor unit by trimming back shrubs and plants. It ensures proper airflow and prevents blockages.
- Keep Vents Unobstructed: Ensure furniture, curtains, and other objects are not blocking your vents. Obstructed vents can reduce airflow and strain your system.
- Maximize Airflow: Use ceiling and portable fans to circulate cool air more effectively, reducing the burden on your air conditioner.
- Clean Outdoor Unit: Regularly remove debris, leaves, and dirt around your outdoor unit to ensure it operates efficiently.
- Clean Indoor Unit: Keep the indoor unit clean. Dust and dirt can accumulate and reduce the system's efficiency.
- Consider An Upgrade: If your HVAC system is over ten years old, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model, especially if you observe these signs you need a new AC unit.
- Reduce Overall Heat Load: Try to use heat-generating appliances like ovens and dryers during the cooler parts of the day; this is a great way to help the AC on hot days.
- Refill Refrigerant Levels: Low refrigerant levels can cause your system to work harder and less efficiently. Have a professional check and refill refrigerant as needed.
- Maintain HVAC Resources: Keep up with routine maintenance by following the manufacturer's guidelines and scheduling professional inspections.
- Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance: Have a professional inspect and service your HVAC system at least once a year to catch any potential issues early.
- Seal Windows And Doors: Make sure your home is adequately sealed to prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from entering. It reduces the workload on your system.
- Use Window Treatments: Install curtain blinds or shades to block out the sun's heat during the hottest parts of the day.
- Optimize Insulation: Proper insulation in your attic and walls can help maintain your home's temperature, reducing the demand for your air conditioner.
Your AC system is strong and can handle the heat, but taking the tips on how to use the AC in the summer listed above ensures the performance of your unit is optimal and guarantees comfortable temperatures all season long.
Does Covering Your AC Unit Help In Summer?
No, it doesn't. Covering your AC unit during summer is not recommended. While covering might protect the unit from debris, it can trap heat and moisture, leading to corrosion and other damage. Instead, ensure that the area around your unit is clean and clear to promote optimal airflow and efficient operation.
Following these HVAC tips for summer, you can keep your system running efficiently all season, ensuring a comfortable living environment and potentially saving energy costs. Call homeyou's HVAC specialists to help you execute the tips you have just learned!
