There’s nothing quite like summer in Montgomery County. Still, the heat and humidity can do more than wear on your spirit; it can damage your home’s HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems. At Presidential Heating & Air Conditioning, we strive to help property owners like you prepare for summer, and ultimately, keep your utility bills manageable.
From inspecting your AC unit to scheduling a seasonal HVAC tune-up, learn how to prep for a stress-free summer.
How to Prepare Your Home for Summer
Get your home summer-ready with these tips for prepping your utility systems.
Pre-summer HVAC Maintenance
- Inspect your AC system. Perform a visual inspection of your air conditioning unit.
- Begin by checking the outdoor unit for any signs of damage, debris buildup, or obstructions around the evaporator and condenser coils.
- Inside, inspect the condenser drain for any blockages or mold growth.
- Schedule a tune-up. A professional AC tune-up to get your AC ready for summer before temperatures soar. Summer HVAC maintenance is all about easing the transition from heating to cooling. Depending on the type of unit, our team will replace filters, lubricate moving parts, inspect electrical components, and perform additional maintenance tasks as needed. Finally, we’ll identify any areas of concern and alert you to any work that needs to be planned for in the future.
- Test the thermostat. After switching from heat to cool settings, monitor your thermostat to see if it maintains the correct temperature.
How Do I Know When to Turn Off Central Heating for Summer?
After you’ve tested your thermostat and know it’s in good working order, turn your system off (or back to heating) until temperatures are consistently above 60°F during the day and above 40°F at night.
DIY Spring or Summer Plumbing Inspection
Cold winters and freeze-thaw cycles in spring can harm your home’s plumbing system. As you transition to warmer days, prevent summer plumbing issues by inspecting the pipes, lines, and fixtures. Here’s how:
- Inspect your water lines. Check faucets, fixtures, and accessible pipes for leaks or damage. Also, check outdoor faucets and underground sprinkler systems that may have been affected by winter's cold.
- Check your water heater. Consider lowering its temperature by a few degrees; 120°F is ideal for saving money. Take a moment to check for any signs of wear and tear. Spring or early summer is a perfect time to drain the tank and remove sediment buildup.
- Examine your sump pump. Look for any debris in or around the pit, ensure everything is functioning correctly, and if there is a test button, press it to confirm everything is working correctly. The operation of your sump pump may be crucial in preventing a flood in your basement.
Find Summer Electric Bill Savings
Since most air conditioning systems operate on electricity, a scorching or longer-than-average summer cooling season can significantly increase your electricity bill.
If you're looking to lower your costs this summer, consider focusing on weatherproofing and insulation to reduce your expenses. Proper air sealing and insulation can help you save up to 15% on your overall heating and cooling expenses, particularly during the hottest and coldest days of the year.
Additionally, summer is a great time to invest in a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats help reduce energy bills by learning your habits and adjusting the temperature accordingly.
Read more: How to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
What Uses the Most Electricity in a Home During Summer?
Air conditioning is often the most significant energy sink in a home during the hot summer months. On average, cooling accounts for nearly half of a home's electricity use in the summer. Optimizing your system for efficiency is critical for reducing your home’s energy bills.
Get Your Home Ready for Summer with Presidential Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc
Our team is standing by and ready to help you live more comfortably and save money on utility bills. Experienced technicians to provide dependable, cost-effective home services when you need them most. We are dedicated to ensuring our neighbors live comfortably.
Contact us online or call 301-719-3315 to schedule an appointment!