Our HVAC systems are an important part of home comfort and become even more so during summer and winter, especially in regions that experience extreme weather. AC maintenance in Jacksonville is important for helping residents keep their homes cool during the hot summer months and ensuring they stay throughout winter. Ensuring your HVAC system has been well-maintained is essential to avoid the discomfort that an unexpected breakdown can cause. Seasonal maintenance can help extend your HVAC system’s life and ensure optimal performance, saving energy bills and costs.
Why is seasonal maintenance important?
Neglecting to maintain your HVAC system can lead to many issues, including significant increases in energy bills and inconvenient breakdowns. Over time, dust and other debris accumulate, making your system work harder to maintain your desired indoor temperature. The added strain can reduce efficiency, leading to higher energy consumption or breakdown. Parts of your HVAC system can also become worn over time, leading to reduced efficiency. Conducting seasonal checks allows you to become aware of small issues before they escalate and become costly repairs. Being proactive about your AC maintenance Jacksonville can help you ensure your system’s efficiency, keep the air quality healthy, and keep your home comfortable all year round.
Summer HVAC checklist:
When it’s time for summer in Jacksonville, you want to ensure that your cooling system is ready to help you combat the heat. Below are some items that you or your trusted AC maintenance company in Jacksonville can check before the summer season starts:
Air filters: The air filters in your HVAC system work to trap dirt, dust, and allergens. Clogged filters restrict airflow and can reduce the air quality in your home. You can check the condition of your filters by shining a light behind them. If the light shines through, the filter is likely still in good condition. If the light is obstructed, it may be time to replace the filter.
Test cooling functionality: You don’t need to wait for warm weather to set in before testing your HVAC system—turn on its cooling functionality early to ensure that it is working. If it is not blowing cool air or is taking unusually long to cool down, you may need to call your maintenance company.
Inspect and clean outdoor units: Your HVAC’s outdoor unit is exposed to the elements, so check it for any debris that might have accumulated. Ensure the fins are undamaged and clear, and gently wipe them clean.
Check thermostat settings: Adjust your thermostat to a summer-appropriate setting for optimum energy efficiency. If you have not already, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat that automatically adjust temperature settings based on your preferences or schedule.
Winter HVAC checklist:
Before winter temperatures set in, these are some items that you and your AC maintenance company in Jacksonvillecan check:
Air filters: As with summertime, it is important to check that your air filters are in good condition to optimize efficiency and ensure healthy air quality.
Check furnace ignition and pilot light: If you have a gas furnace, inspect the pilot light to ensure that it is burning steadily. A flickering or weak flame may indicate that you need to call your AC maintenance company Jacksonville to do a check. Check if your furnace uses electronic ignition to ensure it works properly.
Clean air ducts and vents: Dust and debris can accumulate in your air vents, leading to inefficient air flow and allergens being blown into your home. Carefully clean all visible dust and dirt; consider a professional cleaning if a more thorough job is needed.
Test carbon monoxide detectors: Heating systems, especially those that are powered by gas, can have carbon monoxide risks, which can be extremely dangerous. Ensure that your carbon monoxide detectors are working, and change the batteries as needed.
Conclusion: This checklist will ensure you stay comfortable as the Jacksonville seasons change. It will also mean you can keep up with any maintenance your AC may require, ultimately saving you time and money. By following these simple steps twice a year, you’ll ensure your AC works well for you throughout the changing seasons.
