We’ve already experienced a hint of summer, and it’s only a matter of time before the full force of summer’s heat and humidity sets in, driving everyone to seek refuge in the AC. The last thing you want is a malfunctioning central AC unit on the hottest day of the year.
The highest temperature ever recorded in Chicago was 105ºF and 109ºF in Midway, both in 1934. However, the city experienced 100-degree weather in 2023. This summer could be another scorcher, and CoolZone HVAC has tips to help you stay cool and ensure your AC is in top shape.
KEEP UP WITH ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
Schedule professional maintenance annually. An AC technician should check your system to ensure it’s pressurized correctly, that there are no unusual sounds, and that loose wiring isn’t affecting its function.
A technician will clean the coils, check for leaks, and verify that the thermostat is working correctly. If something is wrong, you’ll know and have the chance to make repairs before your system fails. Your technician may also change the filter if you haven’t already done so.
Every three to five years, have your ducts professionally cleaned and inspected. If there are signs of cracks or holes, get them fixed to prevent the loss of cool or warm air into your walls, attic, or crawl space. They will also be checked for mold and mildew. If there are issues, address them before the mold spores make you sick.
Seek expert advice when it’s time to replace your old system. While you do have to spend money on installation and a new system, energy savings often help recover the cost. Plus, energy tax credits and instant rebates from state and federal government agencies can make a new AC very affordable.
DON’T OVERLOOK THE THINGS YOU SHOULD BE DOING YOURSELF
Some aspects of AC maintenance are DIY. Clean your outdoor unit. Ensure shrubs and garden plants are several feet away from the unit. Remove weeds, grass clippings, and leaves from the vents on the condenser. Check that pollen, dust, and dirt haven’t built up on the coils. If the coils are coated, use a garden hose to spray them off.
Inside the home, clean the air vents. Check for dust and pet hair. If there’s a build-up, use a vacuum with an upholstery brush attachment to clean them. If that’s insufficient, remove the vents, wash them, dry thoroughly, and reattach them.
Check the air filter each month. If it’s coated with dust, hair, and dirt, it’s overdue for a replacement. Ideally, change the filter every couple of months, but this depends on the number of people in your home, cooking habits, and pets. Some homes are dustier due to sandy, dry outdoor soil.
Ensure your thermostat is accurate. Set up an indoor thermometer near the thermostat. There may be a slight difference, but your indoor thermometer shouldn’t read 85ºF while your thermostat reads 75ºF unless the indoor thermometer is in direct sunlight or near a heat source, like a coffeemaker.
SAVE MONEY WITH THESE TIPS & TRICKS
To reduce energy bills and improve your AC’s efficiency, check your doors and windows for leaks. When your AC is on and your home is cool, feel around the edges of doors and windows. If you feel warm air coming in, you have an air leak that can be fixed with new weatherstripping and caulk.
Invest in a smart thermostat. It learns your habits and adjusts the temperature accordingly. If you leave for work each day at 7 a.m., your AC can increase to 80ºF while you’re gone. Before you return, it can cool your home to your preferred temperature. To reduce your carbon footprint, avoid setting the temperature lower than 78ºF.
Choose the correct air filters for your system. If a filter is too restrictive, it makes your system work harder, increasing energy consumption.
BE STRATEGIC WITH HOME DÉCOR
Ceiling fans are essential when running air conditioners. They help distribute cold air for even cooling. If you don’t have ceiling fans, use floor or box fans to move the air. Some air purifiers also do a great job of removing pollen, dust, and allergens while circulating the air.
During the day, use north-facing windows for natural lighting and close south-facing windows. Light-blocking honeycomb shades are easy to use and contain air pockets that prevent heat loss or gain. As the sun moves, adjust the shades accordingly.
For patio doors, blinds help keep the sun out. Consider an awning to shade the door during the sunniest times. A roof or pergola over your patio can also shade your home when it’s sunny.
Dark colors absorb heat. The sun’s UV rays heat dark furniture, flooring, and walls, which then release heat, increasing your home’s temperature. Light walls and furnishings help keep your home cooler.
With tips from CoolZone HVAC, you’ll stay cool and comfortable throughout the summer. Save money, avoid stress, and know we’re here to help if something goes wrong.
While you can do much to keep your AC running smoothly, sometimes you need a professional. CoolZone HVAC’s technicians are fully trained, insured, and ready to help keep your system in prime working order. Contact us online or by phone to schedule a visit or learn more.mfortable without putting you at risk.
