Just because Texas gets hot doesn’t mean you can’t stay cool. Preparing your HVAC system now for the scorching summer can mean big savings all season long. Don’t worry; it will only require an hour or two of your time. Prices seem to be higher on everything nowadays. However, knowing what steps to take can help you create a cool and comfortable environment in your home without feeling like you’re unnecessarily throwing your money out the window. 

Replace Your Air Filter

This super-simple task takes minutes but can result in less dust and allergens in your air and your HVAC system working more efficiently. All you have to do is replace your air filter with the same one currently in your system (as long as it’s the correct one). 

They’re readily available online and in many home improvement stores and typically include instructions on the packaging.  Make sure you’re choosing the correct size and type. If you’re unsure of which one to get, take a picture of the one your system is currently using, along with photos of any displayed model numbers, and bring them to a home improvement store. An employee will help you get the right ones. 

Get Knowledgeable About Air Conditioner Use

Many think they already know all there is to know about using an air conditioner, but you’d be surprised how much there is to learn that can help save some money. For instance, did you know plugging your AC into an energy-efficient power strip might help save some money? How about that you’re not supposed to repeatedly turn your AC on and off because it’s a waste of energy and money? 

Learning a variety of these tidbits of knowledge can help greatly. If you have any specific questions, feel free to ask a professional HVAC technician, who will be happy to answer them for you.

Clean the Area Near the Outdoor Unit

This is another task you can easily do on your own or have professional landscapers do it for you. 

Before you turn on your air conditioner, remove all the leaves, debris, grass clumps, branches, and any other natural elements that are near your outdoor unit. Make sure there are no vines, branches, or any other greenery that can grow their way into the system.  It can also be a good idea to have any branches hanging above the unit so any leaves or other debris won’t fall into it.

Aim for approximately three feet of clear space. This can help your unit work more efficiently and prevent damage and blockages. 

Schedule Your Professional Tune-up

Late spring is the first time of the year to schedule your professional HVAC tune-up, with the second time being in fall in preparation for winter. During the tune-up, the technician will do a variety of tasks, including (but not limited to) lubricating the components, checking that the thermostat is working properly, cleaning the coils, and making sure all electrical wires are intact and won’t pose a fire hazard. 

Call as soon as possible to schedule your appointment. Many people call for a seasonal tune-up, so getting your appointment on the books early ensures you get the date and time you want that’s most convenient for you.

Test Out Your Air Conditioner 

Testing out your air conditioner before you schedule a tune-up can give you a good idea of if there are any problems you’ll want to have addressed by a professional. For example, if the AC is making a strange noise or there are uneven cooling spots, let the HVAC company know when you call to make your appointment. They’ll be able to plan ahead to check and see what the issue might be. 

Don’t wait until a hot Texas day to start preparing your HVAC system for the summer. Have it all set and ready to go beforehand, so you can be comfortable once the warmer weather approaches. You’ll be happy you did when an unexpected heat wave arrives, but you have peace of mind knowing your AC is pumping and you’re keeping utility costs at a minimum.