Best Ways to Minimize Strain on your HVAC System During Summer

During the Spring and Summer months, daily temperatures hit highs and it can be draining without a good HVAC system. Because of how heavily HVAC systems are used during these seasons, however, it can begin to cause strain and wear down your HVAC system. As a result, fighting high heat means your HVAC system needs to work much harder. Thankfully, there’s plenty of upkeep and upgrades you can do to your system in order to maintain your HVAC and reduce the risk of needing to replace your system or need repairs in the long run. Additionally, taking these precautions can help you lower your electricity bill and save money. Without any more wasted time, let’s get into the tips and maintenance methods you can utilize to keep your HVAC system running efficiently.

Minimize the Heat in your Home

One way to reduce your strain on your system, and also lessen the amount you need your HVAC in general; you can take steps and methods to reduce the heat inside your home. While you can’t control the external heat of the outside, you can do things like closing your blinds or curtains, turning off lights, keeping your doors and windows closed and properly insulated, as well as using ceiling fans or rotating fans to assist the airflow of your home. You can also try to minimize the amount you use appliances that generate heat such as your oven, stove, dryer, or dishwasher.

Give your HVAC a Break

Whether you’ve left the house for work, gone on a vacation, or simply enjoying the nice weather outside; if no one is at your home, this is the perfect time to power down your HVAC system and give it a chance to rest. This helps the internals of your HVAC system cool as well, meaning when you power your HVAC on later, it will have a cooler stream of air than had you left it on while you were out.

Check Your Ductwork

Another problem with HVAC systems to look out for is your air ducts and your vents. If they’re poorly sealed, they may leak. Additionally, they could become loose or crack, which takes a toll on the quality and flow of your airstream. Make sure your ducts are sealed and insulated properly, and also make sure to clean your ducts at least once a year. Pet dander, dust, and even mold can build up and circulate in the air; so it’s good practice to keep them clean!

Change your Air Filters

A dirty or clogged air filter will cause problems for your HVAC by limiting its airflow. Be sure to also regularly check your condenser and make sure it’s free of leaves or debry. Try to change air filters at least every three months. If people in your home have respiratory or allergy issues, or if you have pets who shed regularly; you may need to change your filters at least monthly. Whatever the case, keeping your filters changed will improve the quality of air and keep your system going strong.

Improve your Insulation

Another household change or renovation you can take to improve the efficiency of your system is by reinsulating or properly insulating your home. This helps maintain a more neutral temperature inside of your home both during Summer and Winter months. Try to improve insulation in locations like the garage, basement, or attics; as these are locations in the home where cool air and heat commonly escape. By keeping things airtight, you keep the temperature you want in and the outside weather out of your home.

Consider Energy-Efficient Windows

Another way your home can impact the performance of your HVAC is through your windows. Windows are responsible for around 25 to 30 percent of a home’s energy consumption, so making sure your windows that are older or in poor condition get upgraded should be on your to-do list. By upgrading to energy-efficient windows, you’re able to both save energy and your system. If you choose to repair your windows, you may need to pay more for resealing windows, fixing them, and repairing missing or cracked caulk.