As we approach the peak of the summer season, it is essential to get the most out of your air conditioner. Throughout the winter months, your HVAC system has been strained from keeping your house cozy and warm. Now that summer is almost in full swing, your HVAC system could use a tune up in order to run efficiently and effectively. Some ways to optimize your HVAC system for the summer months include checking and replacing filters, strategically opening and closing vents, and scheduling a check-up to make sure the HVAC system is running smoothly. Doing these simple tasks will keep your gas or electricity bill down while consistently sustaining the temperature you desire.
Checking and Replacing Filters
Checking HVAC filters is often an afterthought for people who are not aware of the problems and money that a malfunctioning air conditioner can cause. One of the easiest ways to maintain an effective HVAC system is to check and possibly replace the filter based on the filter’s MERV rating. Pet hair, smoke, and even allergens are some of the main reasons filters get dirty, so if there is an excessive amount, filters should be replaced or cleaned more frequently.
Each filter, whether disposable or reusable, has a MERV rating. The MERV scale is based on a filtration system based on a scale from six to twelve. The lower the MERV rating, the longer the filter will last. A MERV rating from six to nine may only need to be replaced every three months, while a filter with a MERV rating of ten to twelve should be changed every other month.
Replacing the filter is quite easy and often a DIY task. Here is a step-by-step video guide on how to replace an HVAC filter!
Strategically Opening and Closing Vents
In the summer, opening and closing the correct vents is important for keeping the cool air in the house. In order to optimize your air conditioning, closing floor vents while opening ceiling vents will trap the cold air in the house. Warmer air will travel out of the ceiling vents because heat rises and closing floor vents will help keep the cool air in the house as cooler air stays closer to the floor. This simple task is beneficial because it can lower utility bills and keep your house at a comfortable temperature during the summer months.
Another simple way to keep your house cool is to invest in sun blocking blinds and make sure to keep them closed during the hottest part of the day. This will help natural heat stay out while keeping the house cool when you are away. Ceiling fans can also help distribute the cool air throughout the house. Be sure to check that the ceiling fan is rotating counterclockwise to ensure the cool air does not rise through the open ceiling vents.
Scheduling a Check-Up
Although opening and closing the right vents and replacing filters can help sustain the life of your HVAC system, there are still many underlying components that can be detrimental to your air conditioning and heating units. Without a licensed professional, it is difficult to determine whether your entire HVAC system is running efficiently and effectively. Scheduling a regular check up with a trained professional can add years of life to your air conditioning and heating unit. These check ups include, but are not limited to, an inspection of the following components of an HVAC system:
- Thermostat
- Drain lines
- Electrical wiring
- Coils and motor proficiency
- Refrigerant lines
Knight Plumbing is licensed for all HVAC services in the state of Idaho. Specializing in installation, maintenance, repair, and replacement of HVAC systems gives us all the tools to properly optimize your unit just in time for summer! Boise metro area plumbing and HVAC services are offered 24/7 by Knight Plumbing. If you are having trouble keeping your house cool, do not hesitate to contact us. Financing options are available, and we offer 10% off for first-time customers and 5% off to all veterans and active service members!
