Tips for a Well-Functioning Cooling System

HomeSense Team

May 15, 2023

Preparing Your Home For The Summer Heat: Tips For A Well-Functioning Cooling System

As temperatures rise, it’s time to make sure your cooling system is ready for summer. Whether you have a central air conditioning unit, window unit, or portable air conditioner, proper maintenance and preparation help ensure your cooling system works efficiently. Here are some essential tips to prepare your system for summer.

Check The Thermostat

The thermostat is the device that communicates with your cooling system to maintain your desired temperature. It is crucial to ensure that your thermostat is functioning correctly. If your thermostat is malfunctioning or not calibrated, your cooling system may work inefficiently, leading to higher energy bills and reduced comfort. Checking the accuracy of your thermostat and making any necessary adjustments can help your system work more efficiently, saving you money and improving your overall comfort.

Another reason to check your thermostat before summer is to ensure it’s compatible with your cooling system. If you’ve recently upgraded or replaced your cooling system, you may need to update your thermostat as well. Incompatibility can result in a lack of proper communication between your cooling system and thermostat, leading to inefficient cooling and increased energy bills.

If you have an older thermostat, consider upgrading to a programmable model. Programmable thermostats can be set to adjust the temperature automatically, depending on your schedule and lifestyle. This feature can help you save money on energy bills by adjusting the temperature when you’re not home or sleeping.

Clean And Replace The Air Filters

Air filters play a crucial role in the functioning of your cooling system by preventing dust, dirt, and other pollutants from entering the system and clogging it. Over time, the air filters themselves can become clogged, reducing airflow and causing your system to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. While you can check and replace air filters yourself, professional HVAC maintenance ensures thorough inspection and proper installation.

During a maintenance visit, an HVAC technician will inspect your air filters, clean reusable filters if applicable, and recommend replacement when needed. Most homeowners can handle basic monthly filter checks and replacements themselves—your system’s manual will show you how.

Clean The Outdoor Unit

The outdoor condenser unit releases heat from your home, making it an important component of your cooling system. Keeping it clean helps maintain efficiency. You can clear away leaves, dirt, and twigs from around the unit yourself. For deeper cleaning of the coils and fins, a professional has the specialized tools to do this safely.

A clean outdoor unit runs more efficiently and lasts longer. Debris can block airflow, making your system work harder and potentially overheat. This can shorten equipment lifespan and lead to repairs. Keeping the outdoor unit clean also helps maintain good airflow throughout your system.

Call In A Professional

For professional maintenance, repairs, or installation services in the Indianapolis area, contact HomeSense Heating & Cooling at 317-203-8149.

Posted in: Air Conditioning

Posted in: Cooling, Home Care Tips

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