Spring Forward: HVAC System Transition Strategies for Springtime
As the temperatures climb this spring, your focus shifts from heating your home to cooling it. Making sure your HVAC system is prepared for the changing seasons is crucial if you hope to maintain home comfort and energy efficiency. Use these HVAC system transition guidelines from the HVAC pros at Winnipeg Supply Service Experts to ensure your cooling system is primed and ready for the warmer months ahead.
Change the Air Filter
Your HVAC filter gradually accumulates dust, pollen and other particles, decreasing airflow. This can force your system to work harder. If possible, you should replace the filter every one to three months, based on usage and filter type. Choose the appropriate size and efficiency rating for your system, due to the fact that using an incorrect filter can overly restrict airflow and decrease efficiency. If you’re not sure which filter to buy or how to install it into your system, ask your HVAC technician during your next routine tune-up to demonstrate.
Inspect the Outdoor Condensing Unit
The outdoor portion of your AC system that blows out hot air, also known as a condensing unit, is a crucial part of the cooling process. Here’s how to get your exterior AC equipment ready for another summer:
- Pull off the AC cover: If you placed a cover or board over your outdoor unit to protect it from snow and ice, remove it before firing up the air conditioner for the first time this spring.
- Clean the unit: Over the fall and winter, your outdoor unit may have accumulated leaves, dirt and other waste. You can give it a good rinse with a garden hose to wash away this buildup.
- Remove surrounding debris: The area in the vicinity of your outdoor unit must remain clear for proper airflow. Rake away leaves, pine needles and other debris near the HVAC equipment. Also, prune nearby vegetation to ensure at least 12 to 24 inches of clearance on all sides.
- Make sure the unit is level: The concrete pad your condensing unit is placed on may shift or settle over time, causing the unit to tilt. To protect against improper operation and premature wear, adjust the unit by wedging shims underneath its base. Check your efforts with a carpenter’s level.
Increase the Temperature on the Thermostat
Change your thermostat to a comfortable yet energy-efficient temperature. For the warmer months, 78 degrees F is advised while you’re inside your home. If you feel overheated, turn on the ceiling fan to make the room feel cooler without reducing the thermostat.
Boost the temperature by 7 to 10 degrees when no one is home during the day to reduce your energy bills. To avoid compromising comfort, buy a programmable thermostat and set it to resume to a cozy temperature when you come home. This method saves up to 10% on your cooling expenses.
Examine and Vacuum Your Air Registers
Dust, pet hair and other particles can collect on supply and return registers, hindering airflow. Use the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to clear away this mess. Then, verify all your vents are open and not covered up by furnishings, rugs or curtains.
Contrary to popular belief, closing vents in rarely used rooms does not conserve energy; all it does is disrupt the system’s return/supply balance. To prevent excessive strain, keep a minimum of 80% of your supply registers open and unblocked at all times.
Locate and Fix Air Leaks
Leaky windows, doors and other cracks enable hot, humid air to sneak inside your home. To correct this concern, inspect window and door seals, using caulk and weatherstripping to seal any cracks. After that, inspect the attic for insufficient insulation or spaces near pipes, ductwork and light fixtures. Seal these leaks with spray foam and top them with additional insulation to cut down on unwanted air exchange through the attic floor.
Turn on Your System to Test It
Before the season warms up, run your AC for a short while. Walk around your home and make sure cool air flows freely from each and every vent. If you see anything amiss, call a heating and cooling specialist to conduct AC repair to take care of the problem before it becomes a large issue.
Schedule Expert HVAC Maintenance with Winnipeg Supply Service Experts
While at-home HVAC service is worthwhile, it can’t replace the in-depth and skilled care provided by a certified professional. Tasks like measuring the refrigerant charge, tightening electrical connections and cleaning the evaporator coil demand specialized tools and training that only professionals possess.
Spring is a perfect time to plan AC maintenance, allowing you to fix issues early on and prepare the system for the summer heat. Prioritize this service to experience the following perks:
- Decreased energy costs
- Fewer midseason breakdowns
- Lower repair bills
- Better home comfort
- Longer system life span
- Protected warranty coverage
Why Choose Winnipeg Supply Service Experts for Your HVAC Needs in Winnipeg?
Winnipeg Supply Service Experts offers dependable AC services to ensure your comfort and satisfaction this spring. Our certified technicians are trained to provide prompt, effective solutions to all your HVAC challenges. For expert service that lives up to our name, phone 204-800-0613 today!
