Surf City, NC, is known for its warm summers, with temperatures often climbing into the high 80s or even 90s. The last thing any homeowner wants is for their air conditioning to fail in the middle of a heatwave. Yet, many people don’t think about their HVAC system until it stops working. By that time, repair services are overwhelmed, and getting a technician to your home can take days. The result? A hot, uncomfortable house and a higher repair bill than expected.
To avoid this situation, it’s important to check and maintain your HVAC system before the summer heat arrives. This guide will help you understand what to inspect, what to clean, and when to call a professional.
Turn on Your HVAC System Before Summer Starts
Waiting until the first hot day to test your air conditioner is a mistake. If something isn’t working, you’ll be stuck dealing with repairs when temperatures are already high. Instead, turn your system on in the spring to make sure it’s cooling properly.
Let it run for at least 15 minutes while you check the airflow in different rooms. If you notice weak airflow, strange noises, or a burning smell, your system may need attention.
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Inspect and Clean the Air Ducts for Better Airflow
Your HVAC system relies on a network of ducts to distribute cool air throughout your home. If those ducts are dirty or leaking, your system won’t work as efficiently.
Walk through your home and check for dust coming from the vents when the system is running. If you notice excessive dust, an unusual smell, or inconsistent temperatures in different rooms, your ducts may need cleaning. If your ducts are old or inefficient, consider professional duct installation in Surf City, NC to improve airflow and energy efficiency.
Replace Air Filters to Keep the Air Flowing
One of the simplest ways to keep your HVAC system running efficiently is to replace the air filter. When filters get clogged with dust and debris, airflow becomes restricted, making the system work harder to cool your home. This leads to higher energy bills and can even cause damage over time.
If your filter is reusable, clean it thoroughly with water and let it dry before reinstalling it. If you use disposable filters, check the size and get a replacement that fits properly. It’s a good idea to replace filters at least once every three months, but during the summer, once a month is best. Homes with pets or people who suffer from allergies may need more frequent changes to maintain good indoor air quality.
Adjust Your Thermostat for Efficiency
Your thermostat plays a key role in keeping your home comfortable while controlling energy costs. Opting for a programmable thermostat allows you to set temperature schedules, so your system doesn’t waste energy when no one is home.
Set the thermostat a few degrees higher when you’re away to reduce unnecessary cooling. When you’re home, aim for a comfortable but efficient temperature, usually around 78°F. If your thermostat isn’t working correctly or the temperature readings seem off, it may need recalibration. Checking this before summer helps avoid situations where your home feels too warm, even when the AC is running.
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Check Refrigerant Levels to Keep Your AC Running Smoothly
Your air conditioner relies on refrigerant to cool your home. If the levels are too low, your system won’t be able to remove heat effectively, making it struggle to maintain a comfortable temperature. This not only reduces cooling efficiency but also increases your energy bills.
If you notice warm air coming from your vents, ice forming on the coils, or hissing noises from the unit, you may have a refrigerant leak. Unlike air filters, refrigerant isn’t something you can replace yourself. It requires a professional to check the levels and recharge the system if necessary. Ignoring low refrigerant can damage the compressor, leading to costly repairs.
Clean the Evaporator and Condenser Coils for Better Performance
Your HVAC system’s coils play a key role in cooling your home. Evaporator coils are designed to absorb heat from the inside, while condenser coils are responsible for releasing it outside. When these coils get covered in dirt and dust, they can’t transfer heat effectively, making your system work harder than it should.
Cleaning the coils at least once a year helps maintain efficiency. The evaporator coil, located inside the indoor unit, can be wiped down with a damp cloth. The outdoor condenser coil can be rinsed with a garden hose to remove dirt buildup. If the coils are extremely dirty, a technician may need to perform a deep cleaning to restore full efficiency.
Seal Air Leaks to Prevent Energy Waste
Air leaks can cause uneven cooling and higher energy bills. Gaps around windows, doors, and vents allow cool air to escape, making your system work harder to keep the house comfortable.
Check for drafts by feeling around windows and doors. If you notice hot air seeping in, seal the gaps with weather stripping or caulk. Adding insulation in the attic or walls can also help maintain a stable indoor temperature. Fixing air leaks before summer keeps your home cooler and reduces the strain on your HVAC system.
Schedule Professional Maintenance to Avoid Breakdowns
Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure your HVAC system stays in top shape. While some tasks, like changing filters or clearing debris, can be done yourself, a professional inspection covers more complex issues. A trained technician can check electrical connections, lubricate moving parts, and test the system’s overall performance.
It’s best to schedule maintenance before summer starts, so any problems can be fixed early. A simple tune-up can prevent unexpected breakdowns during peak heat and extend the life of your HVAC system. Investing in routine maintenance saves money in the long run by reducing major repair costs.
Preparing your HVAC system before summer isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns—it’s about improving efficiency, lowering costs, and keeping your home comfortable. Small steps like changing air filters, sealing air leaks, and cleaning coils can make a big difference. Scheduling professional maintenance ensures your system is ready to handle the heat, while upgrading an older unit can provide long-term benefits.
Don’t wait until the first hot day to check if your HVAC system is working properly. Taking action now can help you stay cool all summer without unexpected surprises.
