Once the temperature is above 80 degrees for several days in a row, your air conditioner is going to need to keep your home cool. If your air conditioner is not maintained properly before summer starts, there is a higher chance that it will not be as efficient as it should be. In addition, you may need to work harder to keep your house cool, especially when the temperatures outside reach 90 degrees.
In this guide, we are going to take a look at some of the things that you can do to prepare your air conditioner for the summer. We will also explore different upgrade options that you can consider and see what technicians at Bumble Breeze can do to make your cooling system more efficient.
Change Filters
One of the main reasons a cooling unit loses efficiency is a dirty air filter. Regardless of the type of filter you use, you should change most filters every two to three months. However, the need for this is even greater when the cooling unit has not been in use for a while. Before summer, make sure to take a look at the filter and determine how long it has been in use. If it has been a while, it is best to find a new one to install in your HVAC system.
A new filter will allow the cooling system to operate with a higher level of efficiency so that the amount you pay for your energy bill stays relatively low. Always change a filter that looks dirty because failing to do so will cause pollen and dust to circulate throughout your indoor air. This debris will also get stuck on the filter, reducing airflow in your home as well.
Clean Vents
Dust and debris get stuck in the vents that distribute air in your home. When this happens, the airflow in the space is not optimal. It also allows the air to push dust through the unit, which means particles that could irritate your airways are in the air that you breathe. To properly clean the vents, take a damp cloth and wipe down the surface of the vents. If there is dust farther down into the vents, you can attempt to clean them out with a vacuum.
Clean Outdoor Components
Next, you will want to clean the outdoor components of your cooling system. Ensure that there are no leaves, twigs, or other debris near the condenser or the evaporator. This will help remove heat from your living space more efficiently. If the unit is not properly clear, the blockages could cause damage that cost quite a bit to repair.
Some of the steps that you need to take while cleaning these outside components include:
- Removing fallen leaves and vines from the exterior of the unit.
- Carefully cleaning the condenser coils and the aluminum fins.
- Scooping out and removing leaf debris under the cover.
- Using a vacuum cleaner to clear away hard-to-reach dirt.
Check for Refrigerant Leaks
Checking the coolant line for leaks is a necessity that you may not realize you need to do. The refrigerant is an integral part of your cooling system, and without enough of it, your unit cannot run optimally. If you notice leaks, make sure to contact a professional from our team at Bumble Breeze to take care of them for you right away.
Confirm the Thermostat Works
When you are checking your cooling system before turning on your air conditioning, it is important to ensure that the thermostat is working properly. This means that it makes the room the temperature that it is set at. If the temperature seems to be off, then there may be a reason for it that needs attention. That said, a perfectly calibrated thermostat will ensure that you are comfortable without wasting energy. If the calibration is off, the AC unit may need to work harder than necessary to create the right temperature in your living space.
While you are looking at the thermostat, spring is a good time to ensure that the batteries operate correctly. Make sure that the air coming from the vents is cold. Also, check that there are no signs of stress coming from the unit as it goes through the first cooling cycle after being off for the winter.
Test the Air Conditioner
As you allow the air conditioner to cycle, you want to ensure that there are no airflow issues. Airflow is important, and without it, cooling your living space is bound to be more difficult. If the airflow is not right, make sure all of the filters and ducts are clean. Then, if it is still an issue, contact a professional so that they can help you determine the source of the problem.
Consider More Efficient Upgrades
There are quite a few features of your HVAC system that can help make your home more efficient. For example, you can purchase a new air conditioner that has an energy-efficient rating from the Department of Energy. These units may cost a bit more to install, but since they are more efficient, you will save money on your energy bill.
Another upgrade that will help you save energy is a smart thermostat. Installing one of these makes it easy to manage the temperature in your house, even when you are away. In fact, scheduling temperature adjustments to use less energy while your family is not home can reduce energy usage by up to 20%.
Schedule Routine Maintenance Before Summer
Routine maintenance for your HVAC system should happen in your house twice a year: once on your cooling system in the spring and another time in the fall for your heater. At Bumble Breeze, we will take this time to make sure that your HVAC unit is running up to par. We will inspect your ductwork to check for any air leaks. Leaks in the system increase energy usage by quite a bit, so we want to take care of it before you lose too much cool air.
Our team will also check the blower fan to make sure it is functioning correctly. If the fan is not blowing out cool air, there may be an issue with the fan or something else in the system. We will also verify refrigerant levels to make sure you do not run into issues during the season. Lastly, we will check the unit to make sure there are no cycling issues that will cause inefficiency.
Contact Bumble Breeze Today
At Bumble Breeze, we have been serving the residents of Las Vegas since 2018. In addition to addressing your heating and cooling needs, we also provide plumbing and indoor air quality services to the community. We are one of the top locally owned HVAC companies in Las Vegas, with a dedication to making sure that your family is comfortable above all else. Before the heat of summer hits the area, make sure to give our team a call so that you can schedule your regular AC maintenance appointment!
