Spring is just around the corner with summer soon to follow. In North Carolina, that means plenty of sunshine and warm, balmy weather. However, it also means relying on your air conditioner a lot more often than you have been for a while.
It’s crucial to ensure your HVAC system is ready to help you beat the heat throughout North Carolina’s warmer months, preferably ahead of time. Here are a few preparation tips to add to your spring to-do list.
1. Check Filters
Ideally speaking, you should already be cleaning or changing your HVAC filters at least once every two months, so see to yours in preparation for summer if you know it’s been a while. Not only does keeping filters clean and clear help your system work better to keep pollen, dust, and other irritants out of the air, but you’ll also save energy.
Once you’ve changed your filter, add future changes to your calendar, so you stay on schedule moving forward. If irritants and ongoing air quality are concerns for your family, you may also want to consider upgrading your filters.
2. Keep Your Unit Clean
HVAC systems circulate a lot of air over the months and years, not to mention plenty of dirt and debris. Some of that debris is bound to build up in your system over time, making frequent cleanings necessary. The cleaner your system is, the better it can do its job and the longer its overall lifespan will be.
Regularly check the vents for dirt and debris, cleaning them thoroughly each time – especially in the spring when you’re getting ready for summer heat and humidity – and be sure to avoid blocking them with furniture or other home décor items. Take a good look at the condenser coils, as well, and clean those. Also, check your outdoor unit and remove any plants, dirt, or debris that may have built up around it.
3. Check Your Thermostat
Your thermostat is your HVAC system’s control center. If it’s not functioning properly, then neither is your system, for all intents and purposes. That said, it’s a good idea to check yours at least twice a year – once in the fall before the cold winter months hit and again in the spring in preparation for summer.
Make sure it’s attached properly. If your model runs on batteries, make sure they’re fresh and inserted properly. Test it to ensure your home’s temperature is correct, as well. If you’re due for a replacement, you may also want to consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat that takes some of the guesswork out of saving energy and keeping temperatures comfortable.
4. Have Your System Professionally Serviced
Although ongoing self-maintenance is definitely an important part of taking care of your HVAC system, it shouldn’t be considered a replacement for professional maintenance. Professionals can give your system a thorough inspection and take care of any potential issues before they turn into major problems down the line.
They can treat your system to a more thorough cleaning and maintenance session than you’d be able to give it yourself. They can also check the electrical connections, lubricate any moving parts, and run comprehensive functionality tests.
Choose a trusted local service provider like Durham heating and air conditioning. Then have professional maintenance performed twice a year. Many people in North Carolina have their air conditioner serviced in the spring, so it’s ready for the coming summer and then see to their heating system in the fall before winter.
Having a cool, comfortable home to relax in when the mercury rises is a key part of having a truly memorable summer. Take care of your HVAC system, and it will absolutely take care of you in return for years to come.
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