Summer may seem like it’s in the far future away. But before you realize, you’ll be switching from heating to cooling. Soon enough your air conditioner is running regularly to maintain cool temperatures. It’s beneficial to be ready for the additional usage before temperatures really start to climb.
Golden Seal Service Experts and our team of Experts can provide support. We’ve made our comprehensive air conditioning memberships to maximize your system’s energy efficiency and trustworthiness. Our professional experience goes a long way, but there are lots of other things you can do to protect your air conditioner. Here are four of the top ways you can prep for air conditioning season.
1. Clean Your Air Conditioner
Don’t worry, you won’t have to dismantle your system and clean every component. Our Experts take care of this during your annual air conditioning maintenance appointment.
But cleaning the surroundings around your air conditioner will go a long way as well. We recommend:
- Removing twigs, leaves and grass clippings from the outside of your air conditioner.
- Keeping nearby grass and plants clipped back.
- Maintaining no less than 1 foot of clear room on all sides around your air conditioner.
If your air conditioner’s fins get clogged with dirt or yard refuse, this can influence performance and comfort. Your air conditioner will have to run more often to give the same level of cooling. In severe cases, it could stop running altogether and need air conditioning repair.
Your comfort and satisfaction matter to us, so we like to minimize the possibility of repairs in the first place. A clean air conditioner usually operates more efficiently, is less likely to need repairs and usually lasts longer.
2. Put in a New Air Filter
Regularly replacing your air filter is crucial for your air conditioner’s well-being. During a service visit, our pros inspect filters and install new ones if needed. Putting in a new filter is speedy and straightforward. You can (and should) do it on your own when you can!
How regularly you need to install a new filter depends on:
- The kind of filter you use.
- If someone in your house has asthma, allergies or other respiratory problems.
- If you have pets.
Basic flat filters typically last for 30–60 days. Deeper pleated filters can last up to 90 days. If you don’t know if your filter should be replaced, pull it out, and hold it up to the light. Replace it if you can’t see light through it.
Filters trap dust, pollen and other contaminants from your home’s air, keeping airflow healthy. Neglecting it will lower your residence’s indoor air quality and your air conditioner’s efficiency.
In some instances a clogged filter could even damage your system or cause it to break down. Often putting in a new one will keep the inside of your air conditioner cleaner and airflow more balanced.
If someone in your family has allergies, asthma or other respiratory issues, contact our Experts about how a HEPA filter can help.
3. Test Your Thermostat and Smoke Detectors
Now is the perfect time to evaluate other critical parts of your air conditioner and other safety systems.
If you use a programmable thermostat, ensure that it’s running right. If the batteries are getting low, change them.
For more control and convenience, think about upgrading to a smart thermostat. They make conserving energy easier. And select models can even notify you if there’s a problem with your air conditioner or if your air filter needs replacement.
Despite the fact they’re not part of your air conditioning system, now is an excellent time to inspect the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Making sure they still have juice gives peace of mind and an extra layer of protection.
4. Keep Heat Where it Belongs
One of the best ways to enhance energy-efficient cooling is to reduce the concentration of outside heat seeping into your residence. Using quality window treatments such as blackout curtains, honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, can stop the sun from affecting interior temperatures.
Here are a few other methods to keep your residence cool without lowering the thermostat:
- Use ceiling fans when you’re in the room.
- Turn on your bathroom fan to remove heat and humidity when you shower.
- Keep air vents uncovered to ensure proper airflow.
- Install caulk and weatherstripping to seal your doors and windows.
Rely on Golden Seal Service Experts for Experienced Air Conditioning Maintenance
Our guide will help your air conditioner cool more efficiently this summer. But the wisest way you can increase efficiency is with air conditioning maintenance. Some perks of this service entail:
- Worry-free cooling.
- Possibly cheaper cooling expenses.
- Likely lengthening your air conditioner’s life span.
- Keeping your valuable manufacturer’s warranty intact.
Make sure your air conditioning is ready for this summer! Get in touch with the heating and cooling Experts at Golden Seal Service Experts today! Reach us at 630-246-2698 to book your maintenance appointment or to learn more about our HVAC membership plans.