There’s nothing like summer in Elizabethtown, but the season can certainly take a toll on your home’s HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems. We’ve put together a few tips for preparing your home for summer and keeping your air conditioning bill in check. From inspecting your AC unit to tweaking your water heater settings, this is your guide to a stress-free summer.
Prepare Your Home for Summer in Elizabethtown
Get your home summer-ready with these smart tips that address all core systems during the seasonal changes.
Your Summer HVAC Maintenance Guide
- Prep your AC unit. Get your AC ready for summer with a visual inspection. Check the outdoor unit for signs of damage, debris buildup, and obstructions near the evaporator and condenser coils. Inside, check the condenser drain for blockages or mold growth; you can flush the drain line with a mixture of water and vinegar.
- Switch the thermostat. After switching from heat to cool settings, monitor your thermostat to see if it maintains the correct temperature.
- Get a tune-up. We recommend scheduling a tune-up to prepare your AC for summer before temperatures rise. During a tune-up, 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.
When to Turn Off Your Heat for Summer
It’s usually best to wait for consistently warm temperatures before turning off your heating system for the season. Check the long-range forecast for temperatures near or above 60°F and overnight lows of 40°F or higher. If you are still experiencing occasional chilly days, let in natural light and heat during the day to warm the house, allowing you to rely less on your heating system.
Summer Plumbing Checklist
Cold winters and freeze-thaw cycles in spring can both be tough on your home’s plumbing system. As you transition to warmer days, avoid summer plumbing issues by inspecting pipes, lines, and fixtures. Here’s how.
- Check your lines. Visually inspect faucets, fixtures, and easily accessible pipes for leaks, drips, or signs of damage. Don’t forget about outdoor faucets and underground sprinkler systems, which have borne the brunt of winter’s chill.
- Turn down and flush your water heater. Consider lowering your water heater's temperature by a few degrees. (120°F is ideal for saving money.) Take a moment to inspect for signs of wear and tear. Spring or early summer is a great time to drain your water heater tank to remove sediment buildup.
- Inspect your sump pump. Look for debris, listen for proper activation, and use the test function (if available) to verify it’s working.
How to Save Money on Your Electric Bill in the Summer
Since most air conditioning systems run on electricity, a scorching-hot summer can quickly burn a hole in your wallet. Wondering how to lower your electricity bill this summer? Focus on weatherizing and insulation. Proper air sealing and insulation can help reduce your home’s total heating and cooling costs by up to 15%, especially during the coldest and hottest days of the year. Summer is also a great time to invest in a smart thermostat to lower your summer energy bills!
Read more: Make Your Home More Energy Efficient: Here’s How
What Uses the Most Electricity in a Home During Summer?
It’s probably no surprise that air conditioning uses the most energy during the summer, compared to other major systems. The precise energy expenditure varies based on the size of the home, efficiency of the system, and indoor and outdoor temperature differences. On average, cooling accounts for nearly half of a home’s summer electricity consumption.
Get Your Home Ready for Summer with Allen’s Air Conditioning
Ensure you’re prepared to enjoy the summer comfortably, regardless of the temperature. Count on our friendly, experienced technicians to provide reliable, cost-effective home services when you need them most. We’re committed to helping our neighbors live comfortably.
Contact us online or call 270-946-1525 to schedule an appointment!