Summer HVAC prep helps your system make the jump from heating to cooling without a hitch. The air conditioning side of your HVAC system has been in hibernation since last fall. Bringing the A/C online involves more than just flipping the thermostat setting from “Heat” to “Cool.” Here are some summer HVAC prep items to do yourself plus one thing that needs to be handled by a qualified professional.
Replace The Air Filter
Don’t go into summer A/C operation with a dirty filter leftover from the heating season. Install a quality pleated cotton or polyester filter with a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating between 8 and 12 to keep airflow optimum and air quality healthy. Change the filter monthly all summer long.
Check Outdoor Components
If the outdoor half of the central air conditioner was covered during the winter, remove the cover before starting the A/C. Check for leaves, twigs or other debris that may have accumulated in the top fan grille or vent slots in the side panels. If weeds, stacked firewood or other obstructions are closer than two feet to the unit, clear a space on all sides for adequate air circulation.
Open All Air Vents
Go to each room and verify that HVAC supply vents and return vents are fully open and proper circulation isn’t blocked by furniture, drapes or other obstructions.
Schedule Annual Service
Major manufacturers recommend annual preventive maintenance of the HVAC system. In addition, the warranty for most units actually requires proof of annual maintenance by a qualified professional to ensure full coverage.
An HVAC service tech will perform a list of preventive maintenance procedures designed to support system cooling performance and energy efficiency. The service helps reduce wear and tear to prevent breakdowns and extends service life of the unit. Annual preventive maintenance also includes an inspection to detect and deal with any potential minor defects or marginal components before they turn into a major system failure later in the summer.
For professional summer HVAC prep to ensure cool comfort this season, contact Mowery Heating, Cooling and Plumbing.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Brownsburg, Indiana and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
