Spring is already here, and summer is right around the corner, which means it’s soon time to switch your thermostat from heat to cool. While you’re in the spring-cleaning mood, now is the time to prepare your heating and cooling systems for the summer heat. Here are six, low-cost things you can do to save money on your energy bill and prepare your heating and cooling system for the summer.
Remove dead leaves and overgrowth from around your cooling system
With spring comes sprouting grass and weeds, along with the dead leaves that piled up over the winter. Overgrowth like this can clog the cooling unit and prevent it from properly running. Make sure to clean away overgrowth from wires and hoses to avoid damaging them with a mower or trimmer.
Clean out the air filter in your cooling system
Before firing up your cooling system, pull the air filter out and give a deep clean or replace it all together if it’s in bad shape. A clogged air filter can cause freezing on the coils and prevent the unit from running properly when you need it the most.
Clean out floor and wall vents
During that in-between time when it’s too warm for heat and too cool for A/C is the time when dust and other debris can collect in the vents and possibly even prevent air flow. Cleaning out each vent before using your cooling unit is a great way to reduce the amount of allergens and dust from being circulated around your house.
Treating windows
If you have a lot of windows throughout your home, you may have noticed that the indoor temperature can rise significantly due to the sun penetrating through the glass. Your air conditioner then has to kick into overdrive in order to combat the quick heat up in the afternoon. One way to battle this phenomenon is to invest in high-quality window treatments, such as blinds or drapes. Putting window coverings over larger, sun-exposed areas can help prevent the afternoon buildup of heat that normally takes place in the summer months.
Sealing windows and doors
An easy DIY project that can save you a lot of money is making sure each window and door is properly sealed. Nothing is worse than finding out that all of that precious cool air in the summertime is leaking through your windows and doors. To prevent this, seal each window and doorframe with weather stripping or sealer from your local hardware shop.
Perform a checkup and refill your heating unit during the summer months
The warmer months aren’t just about preparing your air conditioner, it’s also the perfect time to look over on your heating system for winter damage while your HVAC system is top-of-mind. If your heating system has a holding tank and requires fuel, now is the perfect time to get it refilled as the prices for liquid propane and other heating fuels are much cheaper now than they are in the fall.
Performing your own check-up and following these simple tips can keep your cooling system up and running and your home feeling comfortable all summer long. For more tips on how to prepare your HVAC unit for the summer or to schedule a routine check-up, please contact us at 1-877-844-4822, or visit our HVAC service division online at UGI Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing.