7 Tips to Keep Your HVAC System Running Smoothly During Summer

Summer is just around the corner, and the temperature in Nashville is already starting to become uncomfortable. In the coming months, you will likely rely heavily on your HVAC system to keep your home cool.

Unfortunately, constant AC usage during sweltering heat waves will add considered strain to your HVAC system. Overworking your HVAC system can lead to several issues, including breakdowns and higher energy bills.

At Aire Serve, we encounter a surge in HVAC emergencies and malfunctions when the weather turns warm. If you’re looking for ways to minimize HVAC system complications during the hot and humid months, you’ve come to the right place. Here are seven tips that can help.

Change Your Air Filters Regularly

A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, making your HVAC system work harder to keep your home cool. Make sure to change your air filters regularly – ideally every 30-60 days. This will improve the air quality in your home and help your HVAC system operate more efficiently.

Keep Your Home Sealed & Insulated

You don’t want to let the warm air from outside enter your home on hot summer days. By sealing your home, you can reduce the strain on your HVAC system. Keep windows and doors closed, draw curtains, and consider using weather stripping to seal any gaps.

Conduct Regular Maintenance

Maintenance is critical to keeping your HVAC system running smoothly throughout the summer. Don’t hesitate to schedule regular maintenance appointments with a professional to check on your system's components, clean the coils, and ensure the refrigerant levels are adequate.

Use Ceiling Fans

Rather than solely relying on your HVAC system to cool your home, consider using ceiling fans to improve the airflow. This will help circulate cool air and reduce the overall workload on your HVAC system.

Keep Your HVAC Outdoor Unit Clean & Clear

Your outdoor HVAC unit needs enough clearance to function properly. Clear any debris, such as leaves or branches, from around your unit and trim any overhanging branches. This simple task will help your system run more efficiently and reduce the strain on its components.

Avoid Overusing Your Appliances

Appliances such as washers, dryers, and ovens produce heat, which can make your home warmer and put an additional strain on your HVAC system. Try to use them during cooler hours and limit their use whenever possible.

Invest in a Smart Programmable Thermostat

If you are tired of high energy bills and HVAC issues, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat. One advantage of a smart thermostat is the convenience of remote access. It gives you complete control over your home temperature – whether you are at home, at work, or on vacation. You can easily adjust the temperature of your home using your smartphone or tablet, meaning you never have to worry about coming back to an uncomfortable house or wasting energy while you're away.

Investing in a smart thermostat not only helps you control your home temperature remotely but also helps you save money. Unlike traditional thermostats, smart thermostats can learn from your habits and adjust your temperature, reducing energy consumption when you're not at home. Some smart thermostats also come with geofencing technology, which uses your phone's location to detect when you're away from home and adjusts your home's temperature accordingly. These features can save up to 10-15% on your energy bills.

Whereas traditional thermostats are not smart enough to notify you when there's an issue with your HVAC system, a smart thermostat will deliver real-time alerts on your phone or email when your system needs maintenance or repairs.

A smart thermostat can detect potential issues with your HVAC system, such as:

Filter replacement needs
Refrigerant leaks
Temperature fluctuations

It will alert you to take necessary actions, thereby minimizing the chances of costly repairs. Smart thermostats are also programmable, enabling you to set the temperature in your home according to your needs and schedule. This will help you save energy and reduce the strain on your HVAC system by avoiding sudden temperature changes.

Lastly, smart thermostats come with various customizable settings, allowing you to personalize the temperature and humidity level per your lifestyle. You can create different settings for different areas of your home to meet your individual preferences. Some smart thermostats can integrate/synch with other smart home devices, such as lighting, to create a more energy-efficient home environment.

Prepare Your HVAC System for Summer by Hiring a Pro

Your HVAC system is an essential part of your home's comfort, especially during summer. Before the heat becomes unbearable, we recommend hiring professional HVAC technicians to help:

Upgrade HVAC equipment
Replace old filters
Invest in smart technologies
Preventively maintain your HVAC unit

By following these tips, you can minimize the strain on your system and ensure it operates more efficiently – saving energy and money while also reducing the chances of unexpected breakdowns.

As always, make sure to consult with a professional if you have any concerns or questions about your system's maintenance or operation. The friendly HVAC experts at Aire Serv are ready to field your questions and ensure your HVAC system is fine-tuned and ready for summer.

Need professional HVAC repairs, tune-ups, or maintenance? Call us today!