If you want to keep your cooling system working at its best level of performance, with the highest efficiency and the least waste of energy, then you should have HVAC maintenance performed before or shortly after the beginning of summer. Here are some tips for what you can do, and what you should have a professional do, for your cooling equipment.
- Call for preventive maintenance: Contact your trusted local HVAC professional for a preventive maintenance tune-up. Your HVAC pro will inspect your cooling system from end to end and make minor repairs, calibrations, and adjustments that boost performance, efficiency, and reliability.
- Check the thermostat: Your programmable thermostat controls when your cooling system turns on and off, so it needs to be in good working order. Test the thermostat by turning the temperature to a setting that makes the HVAC equipment turn on. If the batteries in the thermostat haven't been changed recently, put in a fresh set for the summer.
- Clean the outdoor unit: Clean the outdoor unit by removing any mud, grass, dirt, leaves, sticks, or other debris from the vents. Wipe down the outside of the cabinet with a mild detergent and water. Trim trees, hedges, and bushes so that there is several inches of clearance on all sides and above the outdoor unit. This is necessary so that the unit gets enough airflow to work properly.
- Change the air filters: Check the air filter and, if it is dirty or clogged, put in a clean, fresh filter. Clean filters remove larger amounts of particulates from your indoor air as it circulates through the HVAC system. Filters must also be able to provide airflow for the system. Without sufficient airflow, performance will be impaired and the equipment could even be damaged.
Visit our website for in-depth information on most HVAC topics, or just give us a call at 408-294-6290. Weandrsquo;ve been serving the South Bay, Peninsula and Santa Cruz areas for more than 40 years and can help you with the HVAC maintenance you need to keep your cooling system working at its peak this summer.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in the South Bay Peninsula and Santa Cruz areas of California about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).