More Than Just Routine Maintenance
As the summer months approach, ensuring that your air conditioning system is in optimal condition is essential. A malfunctioning AC system can lead to discomfort, higher energy bills and even potential health problems. Furthermore, as we move into California's fire season, having an efficient AC system can help protect your home's air quality.
In this blog post, we'll provide some tips on preparing your air conditioner for the warm summer ahead.
Do It Yourself (DIY) Steps for AC Summer Prep
While calling our professional HVAC technician for maintenance is always our number one recommendation for summer cooling prep, homeowners can take several simple steps to prepare their AC for the summer months. These DIY steps should be done in June before the temperatures start to soar.
Take the following steps to prepare your AC for the summer:
- Clean or replace air filters to ensure that the system circulates clean air.
- Check for closed and blocked vents and registers throughout your home to further ensure proper airflow.
- Inspect your thermostat and ensure it is operating correctly.
- Switch your thermostat to cooling mode and turn on intuitive scheduling if you have a smart thermostat.
- Schedule a professional maintenance service to guarantee that your AC is in optimal condition.
It's important to note that if you notice any problems with your system or have any questions about maintenance or repairs, please call us for guidance. At Valley Heating, Cooling, Electrical and Solar, our team of experts can provide you with professional advice and repair help to ensure that your AC system is ready to handle the summer heat. Don't hesitate to contact us if you need assistance with your AC system.
Signs Your AC Needs Repair
If youandrsquo;ve noticed a potential problem even though you've gone through the steps of getting your cooling system ready for summer, how do you know it's worth scheduling a professional inspection? The following warning signs can clue you in that your AC needs some professional help.
You may need AC repair if you notice the following:
- Unusual noises
- Weak airflow
- Bad smells
- Warm air blowing from the vents
When left unaddressed, these issues can escalate and potentially cause further damage or breakdowns. We recommend that you address any problems early by scheduling a professional AC repair service, even if you are unsure what the problem is. Our team of home cooling specialists can diagnose your situation and provide you with all your service options.
Tips for Maximizing Your AC Efficiency
In addition to performing DIY maintenance and professional service, there are more things you can do to boost your cooling system's efficiency as summer approaches. Doing these will support your air conditioner and also have the potential to increase your comfort and reduce your energy bills
To maximize your AC's efficiency throughout the summer season, there are several things you can do:
- Set the thermostat to a comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperature
- Use ceiling fans to circulate cool air
- Close curtains or blinds during the hottest parts of the day
- Reduce indoor humidity levels
We are sometimes asked if regular duct cleaning will improve AC efficiency. The answer is somewhat complicated. While yes, duct cleaning can improve cooling efficiency and performance, it does not need to be performed yearly. For most homes, duct cleaning only needs to be done every few years.
Before scheduling duct cleaning, we recommend scheduling an HVAC inspection with our team. We will always provide you with our honest advice and we never recommend services you don't actually need.
Upgrading Your AC System Before Hot Weather Hits
If your AC system is outdated or inefficient, upgrading to a newer, more efficient system can offer several benefits. A new system can provide cost savings, improve comfort and increase energy efficiency. And depending on the system you choose, you may qualify for lucrative tax credits and rebates.
If you are considering a new cooling system, the HVAC professionals at Valley can help you select the right AC system for your home or business, ensuring you have the most efficient and reliable system for your needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our team.