How To Prevent Straining Your HVAC System This Summer

Our reliance on air conditioning systems increases as the temperature rises during the summer months. However, it’s important to remember that HVAC systems can experience strain and inefficiency if not properly maintained.

We’ve compiled a list of tips, tricks, and preventive measures to help you keep your HVAC system running smoothly this summer.

Common Strains Your HVAC system

To understand how to prevent strain on your HVAC system, it’s crucial to be aware of the factors that commonly contribute to its inefficiency. Here are some of the most common strains:

• Dirty/clogged air filters: One of the primary causes of HVAC system strain is dirty or clogged air filters. Over time, filters accumulate dust, debris, and pollutants, obstructing the airflow and making it harder for your system to cool effectively. This strain can result in decreased efficiency and increased energy consumption.
• Closed vents: Closing vents in unused rooms might seem like a logical step to save energy, but it can cause strain on your HVAC system. Closed vents disrupt the balance of airflow throughout your home, leading to increased pressure in the ductwork. This pressure imbalance can force your system to work harder and potentially damage the equipment.
• Incorrectly sized AC systems: If your HVAC system is improperly sized for your home, it can lead to significant strain. An oversized system will cycle on and off frequently, causing excessive wear and tear on the equipment. Conversely, an undersized system will struggle to cool your home efficiently, leading to prolonged operation and increased energy consumption.

4 Tips To Avoid Straining Your HVAC System in Summer Months

To keep your HVAC system operating smoothly and efficiently during the summer, here are some essential tips to follow:

1. Don’t Turn Off Your AC When You Leave the House

It may be tempting to turn off your air conditioning system when you’re away to save energy, but doing so can strain your HVAC system. When you turn off the AC, the temperature inside your home can rise significantly, forcing your system to work harder to cool it down when you return. Instead, consider raising the thermostat setting to a slightly higher temperature when you’re away to conserve energy while maintaining a comfortable indoor climate.

2. Keep Filters Clean

Regularly cleaning or changing your HVAC system’s air filters is crucial to maintain proper airflow and prevent strain. Check your filters every month and clean or replace them as needed. This simple maintenance task can significantly improve the efficiency of your HVAC system and prolong its life span.

3. Don’t Shut Too Many Air Vent Registers in Your Home

While it’s important to maintain a balanced airflow, closing too many air vent registers in your home can disrupt the system’s equilibrium. Avoid closing vents in multiple rooms simultaneously to prevent pressure imbalances, which can strain your HVAC system. If you need to redirect airflow, consider using adjustable vent covers or consulting with an HVAC professional for expert advice.

4. Limit Other Sources of Heat in Your Home

Reducing the heat load on your HVAC system can alleviate strain and improve efficiency. Implement the following measures to minimize heat generation in your home:

• Close curtains or blinds during the hottest parts of the day to block out sunlight and reduce heat gain.
• Turn off lights when not in use to reduce unnecessary heat emissions.
• Keep windows and doors closed to prevent warm air from entering your home and cool air from escaping.
• Utilize ceiling fans to enhance air circulation, which can help maintain a comfortable temperature without solely relying on the AC.

Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance

At John Nugent & Sons, we take great pride in being a trusted name in the HVAC services industry. As a family-owned and -operated business, we prioritize providing exceptional customer service to our valued clients.

With our years of experience, we fully understand the significance of regular maintenance for HVAC systems to ensure they operate at their best. That’s why we offer our comprehensive HVAC Maintenance Plan, designed to proactively address any potential issues and keep your system running smoothly.

Schedule HVAC maintenance services when you call John Nugent & Sons at (703) 291-1926 today!