If you live in North America, you’ve probably noticed a curious thing happening: the sun is peeking out from behind the clouds, green things are starting to grow, and the threat of snow seems to have passed.
That’s right—it’s springtime! Time to shut off those furnaces and break out the t-shirts!
But don’t rush into turning on the air conditioning after winter. To protect your equipment and lower your summer cooling costs, there are a few things you’ll need to do first.
Read on to find out the 10 steps you should follow when switching from heat to air conditioning this spring.
1. Unblock and Dust Your Air Vents
Time for a little spring cleaning! The first step is to clear any clutter away from your vents, open up the slats, and clean off the winter dust.
2. Update Your Thermostat
If you’re still using an old rotary thermostat, you’re probably overpaying on your energy bills. Upgrading to a programmable thermostat can help you save up to 10% annually.
3. Change the Filters
Air conditioning filters should be changed out at the start of the season and every three months while in use. Neglecting to swap out the filter can greatly reduce your home’s air quality.
4. Check the Ductwork
Next, examine your ducts for any holes or leaks and patch them up. These can make your cooling system inefficient if left unfixed.
5. Clean the Condensation Lines
Clogged condensation drain lines can lead to serious water damage. To clean them out, flush one cup of chlorine bleach down the drain, followed by a gallon of water.
6. Check the Wiring
Frayed or exposed wiring is dangerous to your health and that of your air conditioning. Don’t try to repair damaged electrical components yourself—it’s better to call a professional for this one.
7. Clean the Outdoor Unit
Remove any debris like leaves and dirt from the surrounding area, as these can clog the fans as they run. Check to make sure that there is no visible damage and spray down the unit with a garden hose if it’s dirty.
8. Test the System
Now that everything is cleaned out and fixed up, it’s time for a test run. Lower your thermostat to the desired temperature and turn on the system. Then, go outside and check the external unit to make sure it’s running smoothly (no funny noises here!) Keep your system running for 15 minutes or until you feel it starting to cool your home.
9. Inspection and Maintenance
Sometimes air conditioners have problems that are too complicated for a DIY fix. If that’s the case with yours, it’s probably time to have an experienced HVAC tech come out and take a look. Choose a company with a good reputation for customer service, knowledgeable technicians, and lasting repairs.
10. Know When It’s Time for an Upgrade
Even the best HVAC units have a limited lifespan. If yours is over 10 years old, needs significant repairs, or isn’t able to cool your home like it used to, it might be time for an upgrade. To save money on your electricity bills, make sure to choose a cooling system that’s energy star certified.
Follow These Tips When Switching from Heat to Air Conditioning
Switching from heat to air conditioning isn’t as hard as it seems. Just follow these tips and you’ll be ready to fight the impending summer heat in no time!
If your HVAC unit needs some help or it’s time for an upgrade, the technicians at R & R Heating and Air can help! We’ve been proudly serving the Metro Atlanta area for nearly a decade, helping our customers make the best decisions for their needs and budget. Contact us today for a consultation and service quote.
