Summer Survival Guide for Your HVAC System

A woman adjusting her thermostat

Warm summer months in Florida can wreak havoc on your home’s air conditioning unit, but with the right AC unit maintenance and care, you can keep it running efficiently throughout the season. In this summer survival guide, we’ll provide you with valuable tips and resources to help you maintain your HVAC system and ensure a comfortable and cool home all summer long.

Summer HVAC Maintenance Tips

Being proactive and scheduling HVAC unit maintenance tune-ups is a crucial step in preparing your unit for the summer. At AC Designs, our professional HVAC company can perform a comprehensive inspection and cleaning while checking for any issues to ensure optimal performance.

During your maintenance visit, you can expect services such as checking the refrigerant levels, cleaning or replacing air filters, inspecting electrical connections, and lubricating moving parts. These steps will help your unit operate efficiently, reduce energy consumption, and extend its lifespan.

Remember to change your air filters regularly as old filters can make your unit work harder, reduce airflow, and lead to poor indoor air quality. By keeping your filters clean, you ensure that your system operates smoothly and efficiently without added strain during the summer months.

When you join the AC Designs Comfort Zone Club, you’ll gain exclusive access to our maintenance program that offers benefits like priority service, discounts on repairs, and regular check-ups to keep your HVAC system in top condition.

Running Your AC Unit Efficiently During Summer

Keeping your costs low and your home comfortable depends on the way you run your system during the summer. Make sure to set your thermostat to an appropriate temperature throughout the warm season, aiming for a balance between comfort and energy savings. 

Consider investing in a programmable thermostat that allows you to schedule temperature adjustments throughout the day based on your routine. Frequent temperature fluctuations can overwork your unit, so avoid drastic changes and find a comfortable temperature to maintain consistently.

You should also weatherize your doors and windows to reduce unit strain. Seal any gaps or cracks, add weatherstripping, and consider using insulated curtains or blinds. Keeping doors and windows closed while the AC is running prevents cool air from escaping and hot air from entering.

Maintaining a clean home also helps your AC system. Vacuum and dust regularly to reduce the presence of allergens and dust particles in the air. A cleaner home means cleaner air circulating through your HVAC system.

Lastly, be sure to provide shade over your outdoor condenser unit. Direct sunlight can increase the workload on the system, reducing its efficiency. You can create shade by installing an awning, large plants, or other forms of structures.

Consider Upgrading Your AC Unit 

Sometimes, the best decision for your summer comfort is to upgrade your AC unit. Here are some signs that indicate it may be time for a home cooling upgrade:

Age

If your unit is over 10 years old, it may be less efficient and more prone to breakdowns. Upgrading to a newer model can provide improved energy efficiency and better cooling performance.

Frequent Repairs

If you find yourself calling for repairs more often than before, it could be a sign that your system is nearing the end of its lifespan. Invest in a new unit to save you from the hassle and expenses of constant repairs.

High Utility Bills

If your energy bills have been abnormally high despite no significant changes in usage, it could be a sign that your AC unit is no longer operating efficiently. Upgrade to a more energy-efficient model to save on your monthly utility costs.

Inadequate Cooling

If your home isn’t reaching the desired temperature or if certain rooms feel consistently warmer than others, your AC unit may be struggling to cool your space effectively. Upgrade to a more powerful and advanced system to ensure consistent and comfortable cooling throughout your home.

Summer AC Maintenance in Jacksonville, FL

Stay cool and comfortable this summer by taking care of your HVAC system and following these summer air conditioning tips. Schedule your HVAC summer maintenance appointment with AC Designs today and enjoy a worry-free season in the sun.