Ocala residents love summer, but the season does require a little preparation. Prepping your HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems can avoid costly equipment failures and unexpected issues. Beat the heat with these tried-and-true summer maintenance tasks and enjoy a worry-free summer!
How to Prepare Your HVAC System for Summer in North Central Florida
By following our recommendations, you can make the switch from heating to cooling easier on your HVAC system.
Inspect Your AC Unit
Before running your air conditioner, 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?
We recommend waiting until the long-range forecast is over 50 degrees overnight and consistently over 70 degrees during the day. If you want to stay as long as possible before using the AC, try opening your windows at night when the air is cooler.
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. Individuals with asthma, allergies, or respiratory problems may benefit from more frequent filter replacement.
Read more: 3 Ways to Address Poor Indoor Air Quality
Why Is My Electric Bill So High in the Summer?
Roughly half 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.
Try setting your thermostat to 78 degrees when you're at home and a few degrees higher when you're away to decrease energy costs. You can further reduce your energy consumption by investing in a smart thermostat that automatically adjusts to your habits.
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.
- Check for leaks indoors. 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.
- 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 or that experiences heavy rains.
Keep Your Ocala Home Comfortable This Summer
A little maintenance goes a long way toward preventing the summertime blues. You can avoid unexpected equipment failures and unnecessarily high electricity bills with help from Patrick’s Heating & Air Conditioning. Make this your best summer yet with expert home services you can rely on.
To schedule HVAC, electrical, or plumbing services in Ocala, Huntington, and the surrounding areas, call 352-329-3740 or contact us online.