June HVAC Tips for Portland Homeowners

Every month, there are things you can do to make sure your HVAC system runs at peak performance. Our thorough June HVAC maintenance tips will help you care for your cooling system. Work through the list below to keep your air conditioner or heat pump performing optimally to avoid an increase in your power bill.

Maintenance will also boost indoor air quality and protect your system from surprise breakdowns, which could put a damper on your summer plans. With summers in the Pacific Northwest getting hotter every year, be prepared with an efficient and effective cooling system!

Residential HVAC Checklist

• Replace the filters

Changing the air filter in an air conditioning unit saves money. Ideally, the air filters in your unit should be replaced on a monthly basis. This is a great place to start when it comes to maintenance. Replacing your air filters also allows air to flow efficiently throughout your home.

• Inspect the insulation

If you have noticed an increase in your power bill, it is time to determine the reason. Often times the issue lies with the insulation surrounding your unit, or more specifically, the insulation surrounding your coolant pipe. It’s natural to see wear and tear over time, which can include rips and other damages. Checking your insulation is a great second step in maintaining your HVAC system this month. If you see damage to the coolant line beneath the insulation, it may be time to call in a professional.

• Clean the area around your unit

One way to protect your A/C unit is to keep the area immediately surrounding it free of yard debris. Clear away any grass or weeds that may be growing too close to the unit. Keeping the area around your A/C unit tidy will ensure dirt and debris don’t damage it. If you think your unit may have debris inside that may cause damage, don’t hesitate to call one of our professionals today.

• Turn off the humidifier

The next item of your June to do list is to turn off the humidifier on your HVAC system. This feature can work against the cooling element of your HVAC system, as cooling your removes moisture from the air. Therefore it is counterproductive to have a system adding humidity back into the air. There should be a clearly labeled humidifier in your unit. Simply move the damper lever to the cooling positions to reroute air away from the furnace humidifier.

• Inspect the thermostat

Inspect your thermostat to ensure it’s functioning correctly.  This can include replacing batteries, setting the fan to “auto” instead of “continuous,” and making temperature adjustments. A broken thermostat can end up costing you a lot of money as it is inefficiently cooling your home. It is valuable to take the time to test different settings on your thermostat in order to determine your family’s comfort level. You may be able to find a comfortable temperature without having your A/C unit working on overdrive.

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The bottom line

The best way to determine if your air conditioner needs repair or replacement is to consult with the experts at AAA Heating and Cooling. Our Portland HVAC services include complimentary consultations in which a specialist will help determine any issues and provide you with service options. As temperatures start to heat up, repairing or replacing your A/C will ensure your home is ready for the warm weather. Schedule your appointment today.