From Chill to Heat: A Kentucky Homeowner’s Spring HVAC Prep Guide
As those chilly mornings turn into warmer afternoons, it signals it’s time to prepare your home for Kentucky’s hot and humid weather. One of the most important things you need to do is ensure that your air conditioning system is ready to help you beat the heat. This preparation will help you avoid unnecessary breakdowns and keep your energy bills in check throughout the summer.
Replace Your Air Filter
Start your HVAC maintenance checklist by replacing the air filter. Install a new filter at the beginning of the cooling season, and check it monthly throughout the summer to ensure proper airflow and system performance.
You can check the filter by pulling it out of its housing and holding it up to a light. If you can’t see through the filter, it needs to be replaced with a new one. Most homeowners find they need to replace their air filter about every two to three months. You never want to run your system with a dirty air filter, as it will decrease system performance. This will lead to poor indoor air quality, uneven cooling, and higher energy bills.
You have a few different options when it comes to the type of filter you put in your system. Fiberglass filters are on the lower end of the spectrum and should be avoided if possible. Pleated filters are a good mid-range option that most homeowners opt for. These provide adequate filtration at an affordable price.
If you or another family member suffers from allergies, asthma, or another respiratory problem, you may want a premium filter. These have a MERV rating between 11 and 13. While they do come at a premium price, they offer better filtering capabilities than standard air filters.
Clean Around Your Condenser Unit
For your air conditioning system to operate efficiently, the outdoor condenser unit needs a free flow of air. If there’s any debris pushed up against the outside of the condenser unit, it can restrict its airflow. It’s a good idea in the spring to clear away any debris like leaves, twigs, or other items that are pushed up against the housing for your unit.
Inspect Vents
Just as your outdoor condenser unit needs adequate airflow, so do all of your air vents and registers. Give yourself time to walk around to each room of your home and inspect your vents. Ensure that they’re fully open and that they’re not obstructed by any items like plants or furniture.
Program Your Thermostat
One of the most influential ways to reduce your summertime cooling bills is to use a programmable or smart thermostat. These thermostats allow you to set desired temperatures for different times of the day and different days of the week. This means that you can turn the temperature up at times when you’re not at home, like when you’re at work. This will reduce the runtime of your air conditioning system, leading to lower energy consumption.
You should take the time to program your thermostat during the spring. This will allow you to maximize your energy savings throughout the year while enhancing your comfort. Be sure to switch it from heating mode to cooling mode. Make sure your blower fan is set to auto and not ON.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
One thing you never want to forget to do is schedule professional maintenance. This tune-up service will provide in-depth care to your cooling system to ensure that it’s operating safely and efficiently. It’s best to get this done in the early spring before the summer weather settles in. Professional maintenance extends the longevity of your air conditioning system and sustains its warranty coverage.
Consider IAQ Solutions
The quality of air inside your home can have a significant impact on your general well-being. Allergens, like pollen and dust, alongside excessive indoor humidity, can lead to poor indoor air quality and an uncomfortable environment. You may want to consider investing in indoor air quality solutions that can boost your air quality level and enhance your comfort. Some great options include whole-home air purification systems and dehumidifiers.
Reliable AC Maintenance Service
Jeffries Heating & Air + Plumbing provides reliable AC maintenance service for Somerset, KY and the surrounding areas. We can also assist with all your AC replacement, new installation, and repair needs. Just phone our office today to schedule your next service appointment.
