Summer is just around the corner, and the hot weather comes with its’ own set of challenges for homeowners. Preparing your home for warmer months will ensure you can beat the heat indoors without exponentially increasing your energy bills or calling an emergency AC service.
The Dangers of An Unprepared Home in the Summer
The summer months bring a whole host of potential hazards for unprepared homes. Protect your home and family from these risks before the heat hits:
- High Energy Bills: Air conditioning units are notorious for driving up energy bills in the summer months. By preparing your home and utilizing an AC service, you can minimize the need for constant AC use and keep those bills under control.
- Mold & Mildew Growth: The combination of heat and humidity creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew growth. These can cause health issues and damage your home’s structure if left unchecked.
- Pest Infestations: As temperatures rise, pests like ants, cockroaches, and termites become more active. An unprepared home is an open invitation for these unwanted guests to make themselves at home.
- Risk of Heat Exhaustion and Dehydration: Extreme heat can cause health issues, especially for young children and the elderly. Preparing your home will help keep everyone cool and safe during the hottest days of summer. But how can you?
Follow these 10 tips to prepare your home for the summer months and avoid potential risks:
1. Insulate Your Windows
Windows are a major source of heat gain in the summer. Insulating your windows with weather-stripping or film can help keep the cool air in and the hot air out.
2. Schedule HVAC Maintenance
Don’t wait until your AC breaks down in the middle of a heatwave to have it checked. Schedule regular maintenance through a professional AC service to ensure your unit is working efficiently.
3. Get Familiar With Caulk
Caulk is a budget-friendly way to seal any gaps or cracks in your home’s exterior that could let hot air in. Pay special attention to areas around doors and windows, and where pipes or wires enter the house.
4. Replace Old HVAC Filters
Dirty or clogged filters can make your AC unit work harder and less efficiently. Clean and replace them regularly to keep your home cool and reduce energy costs.
5. Check for Ventilation Leaks
Leaking ductwork and improper ventilation are other culprits of your AC working harder than it needs to. Have a professional check for any issues and make repairs as necessary.
6. Install a Thermostat
Smart thermostats allow you to control your home’s temperature remotely, making it easy to adjust the AC when you’re away or asleep. This can help save energy and reduce costs.
7. Check Gutters and Downspouts
Make sure your gutters and downspouts are clear of any debris before summer storms hit. This will prevent water from backing up and causing damage to your home’s foundation or roof.
8. Clean Out Air Ducts
Dirt and debris can easily build up in your air ducts, reducing the efficiency of your AC unit. Have them professionally cleaned through an AC service before summer to ensure your home stays cool.
9. Set Fans to Rotate Counterclockwise
Ceiling fans can help circulate cool air throughout your home but believe it or not, which way it rotates matters. In the summer, set your fans to spin counterclockwise to push air down and create a cooling breeze.
10. Invest in Energy-Saving Light Bulbs
Switch out your old incandescent bulbs for energy-saving options like LED or CFL. These use less energy and produce less heat, keeping your home cooler and reducing electricity costs.
Schedule Your Next AC Service With Triad Mechanical
Summer is the perfect time to schedule a maintenance check for your AC unit. Our dedicated experts at Triad Mechanical will keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long. Plus, if we find an issue, we can fix it before it becomes a major problem. Don’t wait until the heat hits—schedule your next AC service today!