Is your home ready for the cooling season? Austin is a great to live, but if you’re not ready for the heat, you’ll be less than pleased by mid-June. Preparing your home for summer can significantly reduce the risk of unexpected electrical, HVAC, and plumbing issues and may also lower your electricity bills.
Find out how to get your home ready for summer and enjoy the season comfortably with Precision Heating & Air.
Summer HVAC Maintenance and Preparation
You can make the switching from heating to cooling easier on your HVAC system by following this step-by-step guide.
Start By Checking Your AC Unit
Before running your air conditioner, take a moment to inspect the outdoor and indoor components for signs of damage, wear, or blockages.
- Outdoor unit – Look for signs of damage and debris in the unit’s vents and evaporator coils. If you have a cover, remove it before turning on your AC, even if you’re only testing it for a few moments.
- Indoor unit – Check the drain line for blockages or damage. If you notice any water near the line, try pouring a small amount of water into it to see if it drains freely. If not, consider scheduling AC service before the summer heat hits.
When Should I Turn On My AC for Summer?
There’s no perfect formula for deciding when to turn on your AC in Austin. We typically recommend waiting until the long-range forecast is over 50 degrees overnight and consistently over 70 degrees during the day. If you want to wait as long as possible before using the AC, try letting in cold air overnight to keep the house cool.
Replace Your Air Filter
Replacing your HVAC system’s air filter is one of the most effective ways to improve its performance. Most manufacturers recommend replacing your filter every 1 to 3 months. In spring and early summer, you may need to replace your air filter monthly to mitigate seasonal pollen. Individuals with asthma, allergies, or respiratory conditions may benefit from monthly filter replacements throughout the year.
Read more: Three Ways to Tackle Common Indoor Air Quality Problems
Why Is My Electric Bill So High in the Summer?
Roughly half of your home’s energy consumption is from heating and cooling. Nearly all cooling systems run on electricity, including heat pumps, central air conditioning, and ductless mini-split systems. The more frequently you use your air conditioner, the more electricity you consume; that's why your electric bill tends to be considerably higher during the summer months.
If you're trying to lower your electricity costs, try setting your thermostat to 78 degrees when you're at home, and a few degrees higher while you're away. You can also save money by investing in a smart thermostat that makes these adjustments automatically.
How to Prepare Your Plumbing System for Summer
Get ahead of summer plumbing problems with preventive maintenance; no wrenching required.
- Check for leaks outside. Turn outdoor spigots on and off, checking them for leaks and damage. If you have underground sprinklers, inspect each head for damage, and look for soggy spots in the lawn, which may indicate an underground leak.
- Look for leaks indoors. Check faucets, fixtures, and accessible pipes.
- Test your sump pump. After visually inspecting the pump, manually lift the float switch to make sure the sump pump turns on. You can also pour a few gallons of water into the pit and listen for proper activation. This is especially important if you live in an area with a high water table or in a floodplain.
Keep Your Austin Home Comfortable This Summer
Avoid unexpected equipment failures and unnecessarily high electricity bills with help from Austin’s most reliable home services company. Call 512-379-6385 or contact us online to schedule HVAC, electrical, or plumbing services in Austin, Sun City, and the surrounding areas.