Summer is almost here in Portland, and that means it’s time to make sure your heating and cooling system is running efficiently. Keeping up with your HVAC maintenance can give you peace of mind knowing that your system is reliable and will keep your family comfortable throughout the changing seasons. Avoid that unexpected breakdown by following our warm weather HVAC checklist and ensuring your family stays cool all summer long.
Check the Fan
When you turn on your cooling system for the first time, you want to make sure you hear the fan click to the “on” position. If there’s no sound or there’s a long delay, you’ve got a problem on your hands, and you’ll want to call the professionals to come out and check on it.
Replace the Air Filter
One of the best things to ensure your HVAC system is running efficiently is to change or clean your air filter. Try setting a phone or calendar reminder to help you remember to do this critical HVAC maintenance step! Ideally, you should change your air filter every three months, depending on your air filter type.
Check Your Insulation on the Coolant Line
A coolant pipe connects the evaporator on the air handler to the condenser outside. There is foam insulation that covers the line. You’ll want to check to see if this insulation is torn or broken. If that’s the case, you should replace it. If you don’t have experience doing this yourself, you can call an HVAC professional who will easily take care of it for you!
Turn Off Your Furnace Humidifier
Your air conditioner works to keep you cool by removing the humidity from your house, so any extra humidity will force it to work harder. If you have a humidifier on your furnace, it’s time to switch that off. If your humidifier doesn’t have an off switch, there should be a way to turn it into a “cool” position to route the cooled air so it doesn’t pass through the humidifier before reaching your vents.
Clean Your Outdoor Unit
It can be easy to forget that an essential part of your HVAC system lives outdoors. When the warmer weather hits and you’re relying on your AC more, it’s necessary to check your outdoor unit. Ensure there are no visible twigs, leaves, or other debris on or in the fans. Keeping the unit clear of debris and obstructions will reduce the likelihood of overheating and help keep your energy bills down. You’ll also want to take the time to move any personal items like toys or things you’re storing away from the outdoor unit to maintain proper airflow.
Schedule a Tune-Up
The most important thing on your warm-weather HVAC checklist should be scheduling a tune-up for your cooling and heating system. Only a professional can do some HVAC maintenance items, including lubricating moving parts of the interior of your condenser unit, tightening electrical connections, and checking refrigerant levels. These are all essential parts of your HVAC maintenance to ensure your AC keeps you cool all summer long.
With the unpredictable weather in Portland, you should prepare your heating and cooling system for whatever temperatures come your way. Our experts at Heat Relief are here to help you prepare your home for the warmer weather ahead. Schedule a tune-up today! Take care of your HVAC system, and it will care for you.