Summer HVAC Prep
When the temperature rises, you want your HVAC system to be ready to keep you cool. Fortunately, it's easy to prep your HVAC for summer, and the experts at Advantage Air HVAC can tell you how.
Getting Started
Remove the cover and clear away any debris that has built up on or around your condenser. A condenser needs about two feet of clearance on all sides for maximum efficiency. Check the concrete pad the condenser sits on to ensure it is level and has no cracks. A compromised condenser pad can significantly impact how your system operates.
Your Next Steps
- Change the filters. You should do this at least twice yearly, but many systems require more frequent changes. Did you know that a fresh filter can increase your HVAC efficiency by as much as 15%?
- Check to ensure vents are clean and have enough clearance. A minimum of 10 inches is necessary, but more is always better. You should also use your vacuum's hose attachment to clean the vent covers.
- Inspect the ductwork for leaks, obstructions, and mold. This step is essential because leaky ductwork can increase your energy usage by up to 30%.
Clean the Coils
Your AC has two sets of coils - condenser coils located outside and evaporator coils accessed from inside your home. Ensure power to your HVAC is off before cleaning either set. To clean the condenser coils, carefully remove the unit's housing and spray the coils with a foaming coil cleaner. After allowing the foam to sit for 15-20 minutes, spray the coils with your garden hose. Avoid using a strong spray, as this can bend the aluminum fins. Instead, use a fine or wide-angle spray setting.
To tackle the evaporator coils:
- Locate the indoor air supply for your HVAC and remove the access panel.
- Gently brush the fins with a soft nylon brush and vacuum the debris. You will use the same foaming cleaner as on the exterior condenser coils, but since the interior setup is smaller, you can rinse the foam off with a hand-pump spray bottle filled with clean water.
- After rinsing the coils, use a shop vacuum to remove the dirty water, and leave the access door open for a few hours to allow the interior to dry thoroughly.
Check the Thermostat
During winter, your thermostat should be set at between 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Summer weather calls for a change to about 76 degrees, and reprogramming your thermostat is the perfect way to accommodate this seasonal switch. This is an excellent time to upgrade if you don't have a smart thermostat.
Time for a Test Run
Once you've finished cleaning and inspecting the necessary components, turn your HVAC on to ensure it's appropriately cooling your home. If everything is working, you're ready to enjoy a fantastic summer. Advantage Air HVAC is only a phone call away if your system has any hiccups and needs service.
Contact Us
The experienced technicians at Advantage Air HVAC are here to answer your questions about summer HVAC prep. We offer various commercial and residential services, including geothermal heating and cooling. Contact us today for all of your HVAC needs. Advantage Air HVAC is in Lexington, KY, and proudly serves Versailles, Winchester, Georgetown, Paris, Wilmore, Nicholasville, and the surrounding area.
