When the warm weather arrives, you depend on your Sterling HVAC to keep you cool. But there are a few things you do to make sure your system is doing its job. Follow these tips and you’ll stay cold and comfortable on the hottest days.

1. Check and Replace Your Filters

As your HVAC system works, it draws air through your filters. Those filters collect dust, allergens, and other debris. Over time, the particles limit the air flow of your AC. It becomes more difficult for your air conditioner to cool your home. To prevent your AC from working too hard, you should check your air filters every month. Although you should do this all year, it’s particularly important to examine your filters in the summer. If your filters are dirty, clean or replace them. While some filters need to be washed off, others are disposable and require changing. Whether you need to change or clean your filters, the task is easy. But you can get advice on your filters or learn how to change them by calling a trustworthy HVAC company.

2. Keep Your AC Cool

Strangely enough, one of the best ways to stay cool in the heat is to keep your AC cool. If your AC is in the direct sun, it won’t be efficient. The sun heats it up, which makes it work harder to cool the air in your home. To keep your system cool, make sure it has proper shading. This is something your HVAC technician might advise at the time of installation. However, avoid the temptation to plant trees and shrubs right next to your AC. Leaves and branches that are too close to your system make it more difficult for your AC to function. In fact, you may need to hire someone for air conditioning repair in Sterling, VA.

3. Protect Your Thermostat

Much like your AC unit, your thermostat needs to be protected from the heat. If you have a light, television, or another warm appliance near your thermostat, your thermostat won’t properly read the temperature. It will think your home is warmer than it actually is, and the AC will turn on before it’s needed. Before you install a new thermostat, think about its proximity to heat sources, including the sun. If you already have a thermostat, consider what you can do to move things around and limit the heat.

4. Use a Smart Thermostat

You might realize that a smart thermostat saves you money on your energy bills. However, most people don’t realize that it also keeps them cool. When you set your system up to be efficient, it runs smoother. This makes it less likely to break down and leave you stuck sweating the summer away. If you don’t already have a smart thermostat, you should know that it’s easy to install one. Although the thermostats were expensive when they first came out, they’re now very popular and affordable. Installing one for your Sterling HVAC is a great way to save money and stay cool.

5. Replace Your Old HVAC System

Does your AC seem to fail you every time you need it? If so, you should consider replacing your AC. Instead of calling someone for air conditioning repair in Sterling, VA every few months, you can get your system replaced. A replacement is more expensive than a repair, but it could pay off in the long-run. The new system is likely to be more energy-efficient, which means lower energy bills. Additionally, it won’t break down as frequently as your old HVAC. Most new systems come with warranties that protect you from paying for unexpected repairs. Keep in mind that your new AC should only be installed by a qualified professional. If the installation isn’t done well, you’ll experience issues down the line. They also might not advise you to buy the appropriate system. If your system is too large or small, it won’t be efficient. When you work with the right AC installation company, you can get guidance in choosing the right HVAC system for the job.

6. Weatherize Your Home

Is your AC keeping your neighbors cool? If you don’t have tightly sealed windows or doors, your AC’s cold air will escape your home. One simple way to keep the cold air inside is to weatherize your residence. Use caulk and weather stripping to seal up your windows and doors. If there are gaps around your air conditioning ducts, install insulation around them. Another way to weatherize is to install window film or a window tiny on the inside of all your windows. By letting in less sunlight and warmth, the film or tint will keep your home cooler. It will also keep your home warmer in the winter.

7. Use Your Fans Counterclockwise

When your AC is running, some air will get trapped towards your ceiling. Instead of letting that cool air go to waste, you can run your fans in a counterclockwise motion. Each fan will push cold air towards the ground. As a result, your home will be cooler and your AC can take a break. It only costs about $.01 per hour to run a fan. Therefore, you can keep your fan on all day without driving up your power bill. It’s an effective way to beat the heat of summer.

8. Only Work with Experienced Professionals for Your Sterling HVAC

Whether you need your AC installed, maintained, or repaired, you need the help of an experienced professional. Working with the wrong company means the technicians may not do their job properly. If they ruin the installation, fail to notice a problem, or make a mistake on your repair, your system won’t work the way it should. Before you hire someone, make sure they have a good reputation. You should only work with experienced technicians who have the skills and resources to handle all of your HVAC needs. Are you looking for a reliable company to work on your Sterling HVAC? Cardinal Plumbing is up for the job. Call us today to get started.