It might still be hot out there, but there’s no doubt: the summer is coming to an end, and you will be needing to prepare for fall and winter in the not-too-distant future. This can mean a lot of different things, whether that’s garden work, cleaning leaves out of your gutters, or getting ready to host autumn family gatherings. But taking care of your HVAC system should be a top priority!
It might not be at the top of your mind, as you use your AC less and less and spend more time outdoors enjoying the cooler breezes, but your HVAC system needs your attention at this time of year. What should be on your end-of-summer HVAC to-do list? We’ll spell it out for you.
Consider AC Service Needs
Routine air conditioner maintenance is generally done in the spring, just before the system will need to be in top condition for its hardest-working season. But if you’ve got any AC problems going on now, don’t put off repairs until then! Sitting and gathering dust for months won’t make those issues better, and it could make them worse, so if you need AC service, schedule that appointment now.
Shut Down Your Air Conditioner
Turning it off at the thermostat isn’t the whole process. The AC system itself has an off switch, and making sure it’s properly shut down will protect both you and your air conditioner, particularly from electrical issues. The switch can be flipped outside, where it’s located in a box right near the outdoor unit.
Tidy Up
Cleaning the outdoor unit now can really help streamline your spring startup process. Just rake away anything like leaves or lawn clippings, trim back close-growing shrubs, and gently wash it down with a low-pressure garden hose. Make sure it’s completely dry before you move on to the next step!
Cover Your Outdoor Unit
Did you know that AC covers are readily available at many places such as hardware stores and home supply retailers? If you would rather take the DIY route, you can simply wrap the clean, dry outdoor unit in heavy plastic or a waterproof tarp. Secure it tightly with bungee cords so it won’t flap in the breeze or blow away. This can protect the unit from winter storm damage.
Schedule Heating Maintenance
If you’ve got a heat pump, don’t turn off and cover the outdoor unit! You’ll still need it to provide heat this winter. Do schedule maintenance, though, even if you just had it done in the spring. Working all year round means that twice-a-year maintenance is essential to keeping the heat pump effective and efficient and avoiding repair needs and breakdowns.
If you’ve got a different heating system, schedule maintenance for that. Whether it’s gas or electric, maintenance will ensure your safety and help the system use less energy and keep running well for many more years to come.
Whatever you need in terms of HVAC service in Swartz, LA, we’ve got you covered!
Contact Mike Smith Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC. We provide “Professional grade service.”