There’s no place like Lexington during the summer – it’s why we love living here! However, the climate can put a strain on major home appliances, such as air conditioners, and utility systems.
Preparing your home for summer can significantly reduce the risk of unexpected electrical, HVAC, and plumbing problems. It can lower your high electricity bills, too! Learn how to prep your home for the summer heat and enjoy a stress-free summer with tips from Pro Plumbing.
Your Summer HVAC Checklist
Make the transition from heating to cooling easier on your HVAC. Take these proactive steps before turning on your AC unit for the year.
Start By Checking 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?
There’s no perfect formula for deciding when to turn on your AC in Lexington. We typically recommend waiting until the long-range forecast is over 50 degrees overnight and consistently over 70 degrees during the day. If you want to wait as long as possible before using the AC, try letting in cold air overnight to keep the house cool.
Next, Replace Your Air Filter
You should replace your filters every 1 to 3 months to help your system work efficiently and prevent the spread of allergens. That said, replace your filter more frequently if you have pets, suffer from allergies, or have a respiratory condition.
Read more: Five Energy Efficiency Tips to Save Money
Why Your Electricity Bill Goes Up in the Summer
Nearly half of your home’s energy consumption is from heating and cooling. Since almost all air conditioning units and heat pumps operate on electricity, you’ll likely notice that your electric bill is higher in the summer than in the winter. The less you use your AC, the more you’ll save.
Most experts say the best AC temperature for energy saving in summer is 78 degrees when you’re at home. You can save even more by setting your thermostat a few degrees higher when you’re away or by investing in a smart thermostat that automatically regulates AC use.
Finally, Be Sure to Check for Basic Plumbing Problems
- 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.
- Look 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 everything at once!
- Test your sump pump. 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 if you live in an area with a high water table, substantial snowmelt, or heavy rains.
Keep Your Lexington Home Comfortable This Summer
A little maintenance goes a long way toward preventing sweltering weather from ruining your summer. Avoid unexpected equipment failures and unnecessarily high electricity bills with help from Lexington’s most reliable home services company.
Call 336-892-8105 or contact us online to schedule HVAC, electrical, indoor air quality, or plumbing services in Trinity, Salisbury, and the surrounding areas.