As extreme heatwaves and high temperatures become more common in St. Louis, ensuring your air conditioning system is ready to tackle the extreme summer temperatures becomes essential. Especially in places like St. Louis, where summer heatwaves can reach sweltering levels for several days or weeks in a row, a well-maintained AC is your best ally for staying cool and comfortable. Here is a friendly guide to help prepare your AC for the upcoming summer heatwaves.
Galmiche & Sons is a trusted provider of air conditioning services in the Greater St. Louis metropolitan area. Serving home and business owners since 1950, our professional technicians can help with all aspects of preparing AC for summer.
Tips for Preparing Your AC for Summer
Inspect and Clean Your AC Unit
When preparing your AC for summer, start by giving your AC unit a thorough inspection. Check for any visible issues, such as cracks or leaks. Next, it’s time to clean the unit. Begin by turning off the power and removing any debris or leaves around the outdoor condenser unit. With a garden hose, gently clean the condenser coils to remove dust and grime buildup. This simple step can dramatically improve your system’s efficiency.
Replace Air Filters
One of the simplest yet most effective steps in preparing AC for summer is changing your air filters. Dirty filters restrict airflow, causing your AC to work harder and consume more energy. Depending on your unit and household conditions (like having pets), you should replace or clean the filters every 1-3 months. Fresh filters not only enhance AC performance but also improve indoor air quality.
Schedule a Professional Tune-Up for Preparing AC for Summer
Having a professional HVAC technician from Galmiche and Sons inspect and tune up your AC system can prevent unexpected breakdowns during brutal St. Louis summer days. The professional will check for refrigerant levels, test the thermostat, inspect electrical components, and ensure everything is running smoothly. This preventive measure can extend the life of your AC and provide you with peace of mind throughout the summer.
Check the Thermostat
Your thermostat plays a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature. Make sure it’s functioning correctly, and consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. These advanced thermostats allow you to set temperature schedules, maximizing your AC’s efficiency and reducing energy costs.
Seal and Insulate Your Home
Ensuring that your home is well-sealed and insulated can significantly impact your AC’s cooling efficiency. Check for any drafts or gaps around windows, doors, and ductwork. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal these gaps. Proper insulation in the attic and walls also helps in keeping the cool air inside, reducing the load on your AC system and preventing those extreme summer temperatures from creeping in.
Clear Vents and Registers
It’s important to keep all vents and registers open and unobstructed. Blocked vents can limit airflow, causing your AC to work harder and less efficiently. Make sure that furniture, drapes, or other objects are not blocking the vents. Additionally, clean the vents and registers to remove any dust and debris.
Consider Shade Solutions
Providing shade to your outdoor condenser unit can improve its efficiency. Planting trees or shrubs or installing a shade structure can protect it from direct sunlight, helping it to run cooler and more efficiently. Just make sure there is enough clearance around the unit for proper airflow and maintenance access.
Need Help Preparing AC for Summer? Contact Galmiche & Sons in St. Louis
As summer heatwaves become more common, taking these steps to prepare your AC can make all the difference. Keep cool and enjoy the sunny season with confidence, knowing your air conditioning system is up to the challenge! Contact the heating and air conditioning experts at Galmiche & Sons today.
