It’s common for the summer temperatures in Austin to rise fast and can sometimes catch homeowners off guard, which leaves them scrambling to get their air conditioning system ready for the season. Many believe they can just turn on the system and it will be ready to cool your home but this is simply not the case. An air conditioning system needs preventive and routine seasonal maintenance to ensure each part is working correctly and will be able to meet your cooling needs. Read below to learn the 6 steps you should always take before turning your air conditioning system on for the summer season.
1. Clean or Change Filters
One of the most crucial elements of your cooling system is the filters that work to ensure the air is as clean and cool as possible. These filters work to contain contaminants that can aggravate allergies or our airways and to keep the AC system working efficiently. When these filters are clogged, it can not only cause contaminated air to be pushed throughout your home, but it can also cause the system to lose energy efficiency. This means you could be paying more to run your system even though it’s not able to cool your entire space. You should clean or change the filters prior to turning on your AC for the first time in the season and routinely throughout the summer if you have pets or live in an area with high pollen counts.
2. Examine the Thermostat
Homeowners should examine the thermostat for their heating and cooling system each year prior to using the AC each season. If you notice that the thermostat is old, outdated, or not functioning properly, it may be time to consider an upgraded thermostat. Many homeowners are unaware of how important the thermostat is to the overall efficiency of their heating and cooling system. When the thermostat is outdated and lacking in technological advances, it can leave you paying more for your energy costs. A new, programmable thermostat can provide you with efficient cooling at an affordable cost.
3. Inspect the Ductwork
Another crucial step to take before starting your AC for the summer season is to inspect all of the ductwork and additional materials for signs of wear or damages. When there is damage or issues with the seal on the duct system, homeowners can lose up to 30% of their heating and cooling energy through these compromised areas! It can be difficult to determine if ductwork is secure, especially if you are unfamiliar with HVAC work. Homeowners local to the Texas area should contact Austin AC for assistance with ductwork inspections and preventative maintenance.
4. Check Outdoor Unit Materials
Before starting your AC for the first time in the summer season, you should take the time to inspect the outdoor unit materials for any signs of damage or animals. It’s common for small animals to use outdoor systems as a home or shelter during the harsh winter months, so it’s important to be sure the system is clear of any animals and is safe to start up. These small pests can also inadvertently cause damage to materials like ductwork or seals while using the system for shelter. You should also ensure that all seasonal covers are removed and all electrical connections are secure before turning on your AC for the first time.
5. Clear Debris and Perform Landscaping
The autumn and winter seasons come with harsh weather events that can cause debris like leaves, sticks, and grass to build up around your AC system. It’s important to remove any excess debris from the base of your system, as it can restrict airflow to the machine and make it difficult to control the temperature in your home. You should have a schedule for landscape maintenance throughout the summer season to ensure there will be no airflow blockage around your system. The professionals at Austin AC can also assist with regular maintenance on your HVAC system throughout the year.
6. Clean Air Vents
Last, you should always check your air vents to be sure that they are clear and free from any sort of debris build-up. The vents in your home work throughout the year to provide you with both heating and cooling temperature regulation, though this can leave the vents filled with dirt, dust, and grime build-up. This can not only affect the efficiency of your AC system but also leaves the people in your home subject to contaminated air. To avoid airborne contaminants spreading throughout your home and exposing you to allergens, be sure to clean your air vents regularly.
If you follow these 6 steps prior to starting your AC for the summer season, you are working to ensure your system will function like new through the hotter months. When you run an AC system that has damage or issues, it can end up costing you more, in the long run, to have them repaired. Being on top of your AC system materials and upkeep will ensure you are not left stranded in the middle of summer with no way to regulate the temperature inside your home.