How To Prepare Your AC Unit for Peak Summer Usage
It’s important to get your AC ready for peak summer usage. The proactive steps you can take today can make a big difference in your cooling costs and how easy it is to keep your home comfortable. This guide walks you through the 10 most important AC maintenance tasks to complete before the next heat wave rolls through Bradenton.
Clean or Replace the Air Filter
Your AC’s air filter plays a large role in how efficiently the system can run. When the filter is clogged with dust, pollen, and humidity-heavy buildup, the AC essentially has to gasp for air as it struggles to pull it through the return. This puts unnecessary strain on the motor and also compromises indoor comfort levels.
In Bradenton, it’s best to check the filter once every 30 days. If it’s dirty, go ahead and replace it. If you have indoor pets or allergy sensitivities, you may need to change it more often, especially during the peak of the summer cooling season.
Check the Thermostat Settings
Make sure the thermostat is set to “Cool” and the fan is on “Auto.” You don’t want the fan set to “On” because it will keep the blower running around the clock. And in Bradenton, a constantly running blower may pull moisture back into the home rather than allowing it to drip out through the condensate drain.
When adjusting the thermostat, consider what temperature is most comfortable for you and your family. A setting of 74°F to 78°F should suffice in the Florida heat. If you want precise temperature control in different parts of the home at the same time, you may want to go ductless with a mini-split.
Consider Upgrading to a Smart Thermostat
Today’s smart thermostats take indoor comfort and convenience to the next level with their learning algorithms and geofencing features. Most experts agree that these devices can slash cooling costs by as much as 15%. Plus, you’ll have remote access, allowing you to change your home’s temperature with the push of a button on your smartphone. Smart thermostats give you one of the easiest ways to lower your utility bills without having to do major renovations.
Have the Ductwork Professionally Cleaned
Think of your ductwork as a vital, high-speed highway system for the cold air flowing through your home. If it’s been more than two to three years since you last had the ducts cleaned, it’s time to book an appointment.
Over time, the ducts may clog with thick dust and biological accumulation. This slows down the flow of air through your home and may also contribute to worsening allergy symptoms. Having the ductwork professionally cleaned will ensure all of the cool air reaches every corner of every room. We have special rotary brushes and high-powered vacuums that let us reach deep into the main trunk lines and clear away all lint, pet dander, and microscopic spores.
Seal Air Leaks in Ductwork
Duct leaks can be just as detrimental as dirty ductwork. In fact, your home may be losing up to 20% of its cooling efficiency if there are holes and tears in the ductwork. We have diagnostic tools that let us quickly find all leakage points. We’ll seal them using mastic sealant or professional-grade foil tape. If certain sections are severely damaged, we’ll recommend replacing them. Your AC will run smoother and the home will be much more comfortable.
Clean the Area Around the Outdoor Unit
The area around the outdoor part of the AC should be clear of overgrown weeds and stored yard equipment at all times. Aim to maintain a clearance of at least two to three feet on all sides. Trim back any overhanging branches so leaves and twigs don’t fall down into the fan. If you want to clean the coils, only use gentle-spraying water so you don’t accidentally bend the delicate aluminum fins.
Seal Air Leaks Around Doors and Windows
It helps to think of your home as a cooler with ice; if there’s a crack or gap in the lid, the ice will melt. This is why it’s so important to seal air leaks around doors and windows. You want all of the cold air to stay inside where it belongs. Fortunately, it’s usually fairly easy to seal these leaks with weatherstripping or caulk. You don’t even need a professional to apply these simple fixes.
Be Strategic With Your Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans do an excellent job at creating a cooling effect if you run the blades in a counterclockwise motion. Check each one to make sure they’re pushing air directly downward. The AC won’t have to run as hard because you can lower the thermostat since it will naturally feel cooler.
Test Your System Before Peak Heat Arrives
Send the AC through a test run and call us with any questions you may have if you notice any of the following issues:
- Weak airflow from vents
- Warm air blowing inside
- Unusual noises during operation
- Strange musty or foul odors
- Frequent system short cycling
- Thermostat not responding properly
- Unexpected spikes in energy usage
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my AC air filter in summer?
Check your filter every 30 days and replace it when dirty. If you have pets or allergy sensitivities, you may need to swap it out more frequently during peak cooling season. A clean filter can reduce cooling costs by up to 15%.
What thermostat setting is best for summer comfort?
Set your thermostat to “Cool” with the fan on “Auto” not “On.” A temperature between 74°F and 78°F works well in hot, humid climates. Keeping the fan on “Auto” also prevents moisture from being pulled back into your home.
Is a smart thermostat worth the investment?
Yes. Smart thermostats can cut cooling costs by up to 15% through learning algorithms and geofencing features. They also give you remote control via your smartphone, making it easy to adjust your home’s temperature from anywhere.
How do I know if my ductwork needs cleaning or sealing?
If it’s been more than two to three years since your last duct cleaning, it’s time to schedule one. Signs of duct leaks like uneven cooling or higher energy bills may mean you’re losing up to 20% of your cooling efficiency through gaps or tears in the ducts.
Schedule AC Maintenance
The smartest way to get your AC ready for Bradenton’s long, hot summers is to book AC maintenance during late winter or early spring. This gives us plenty of time to address any performance issues. We’ll make sure your system runs reliably during sweltering heat and high humidity.
Ready to beat the heat? Contact One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating today to access premium solutions for cooling systems in Bradenton. We’re on time or you don’t pay a dime!
