Millbrook is one of the best places to live in Alabama, but that doesn’t mean it’s without its faults! Our central Alabama home is known for very mild winters, but hot and humid summers. To get the most out of the summer sun, you’ve got to have a cool place to retreat to after playing, exercising, or working. Ensuring your home’s utility systems are ready for the heat is key.
We've compiled a list of ways to reduce the risk of HVAC, plumbing, or electrical issues this summer and to keep your electricity bill in check.
Learn how to prep your home for the summer heat and enjoy a stress-free summer with tips from the AirNow Home Services team.
Your Summer HVAC Checklist
Transitioning from heating to cooling can be challenging for your HVAC system without some preparation. Before you crank up the AC, follow this step-by-step guide.
Always Inspect Your AC Unit
Before running your air conditioner, take a moment to inspect the outdoor and indoor components for signs of damage, wear, or blockages.
- Outdoor unit – Look for signs of damage and debris in the unit’s vents and evaporator coils. If you have a cover, remove it before turning on your AC, even if you’re only testing it for a few moments.
- Indoor unit – Check the drain line for blockages or damage. If you notice any water near the line, try pouring a small amount of water into it to see if it drains freely. If not, consider scheduling AC service before the summer heat hits.
When Should I Turn On My AC for Summer?
Most homeowners turn on their AC when they know summer has well and truly arrived. Once the long-term weather forecast consistently indicates temperatures above 50 degrees overnight and 70 degrees during the day, switching on the AC for the year is probably okay. You can save energy by opening windows to let in cool air overnight and closing blinds to block sunlight each morning.
Replace Your Air Filter
Replacing your HVAC system’s air filter is one of the most effective ways to improve its performance. Most manufacturers recommend replacing your filter every 1 to 3 months. You may need to replace your air filter monthly to mitigate seasonal pollen in spring and early summer. Individuals with asthma, allergies, or respiratory conditions may require monthly filter replacements throughout the year.
Read more: Energy Efficiency Tips to Save Money
Why Is My Electric Bill So High in the Summer?
Roughlyhalf of your home’s energy consumption is from heating and cooling. Nearly all cooling systems run on electricity, including heat pumps, central air conditioning, and ductless mini-split systems. The more frequently you use your air conditioner, the more electricity you consume; that's why your electric bill tends to be considerably higher during the summer months.
If you're trying to lower your electricity costs, try setting your thermostat to 78 degrees when you're at home, and a few degrees higher while you're away. You can also save money by investing in a smart thermostat that makes these adjustments automatically.
Your Summer Plumbing Maintenance Checklist
Get ahead of summer plumbing problems with preventive maintenance; no wrenching required.
- Look for leaks outside. Turn outdoor spigots on and off, checking them for leaks and damage. If you have underground sprinklers, inspect each head for damage, and look for soggy spots in the lawn, which may indicate an underground leak.
- Inspect for leaks inside. Check faucets, fixtures, and accessible pipes. While this doesn’t have to happen in the spring or early summer, it’s usually convenient to do it at the same time as your outdoor inspections; if you need repairs, you can tackle them all at once.
- If you have a sump pump, test it to ensure it is functioning correctly. After visually inspecting the pump, manually lift the float switch to make sure the sump pump turns on. You can also pour a few gallons of water into the pit and listen for proper activation. This is especially important for withstanding central Alabama’s significant precipitation.
Keep Your Millbrook Home Comfortable This Summer
A little maintenance goes a long way toward preventing the summertime blues. Avoid unexpected equipment failures and unnecessarily high electricity bills with help from Millbrook’s reliable home services company. Make this your best summer yet with expert home services you can always count on.
Call 334-384-6050 or contact us online to schedule HVAC, electrical, or plumbing services in Montgomery, Millbrook, Prattville, and the surrounding areas of Alabama.