Summer in the Coachella Valley is usually hot and dry, with temperatures frequently reaching over 115 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s a bad time to deal with a broken air conditioner. This is why it’s essential to ensure your AC is ready for the desert heat. When you need assistance, you can count on Hermetic Heating & Air.
Schedule Professional AC Maintenance
The best way to make sure your AC is ready for summer is to schedule routine maintenance in the spring. Our professional maintenance services include an inspection, cleaning and lubrication. Furthermore, we’ll address minor repairs before they worsen. Routine maintenance can help you avoid breakdowns, discomfort and costly repairs.
You can enjoy the following benefits of staying on top of pre-summer AC maintenance:
- Enhanced home comfort
- Fewer repairs
- Longer unit life span
- Improved indoor air quality
- Lower energy bills
With our Gold Maintenance Plan, you can schedule semi-annual visits to confirm your HVAC system is ready for any weather. The plan includes full maintenance, discounts, reduced rates and guaranteed priority service within 24 hours.
Change the Air Filters Regularly
Desert dust can quickly accumulate and clog the air filters. When this happens, your AC may become overworked and strained. Fortunately, you can prepare for desert dust by checking and replacing the air filters every one to three months. If you’re using the AC daily, you may want to change the filters monthly to stay on top of blockages.
Ensure Proper, Even Airflow
Keeping the vents and registers clear is necessary for proper, even airflow. Walk through your home and make sure all vents are open and unblocked. You should also remove dust, dander and pet hair buildup on the grilles. If you’re still having trouble cooling your home, it’s time to call a technician.
Check and Clean the Ducts
You can also improve your AC’s performance by checking the ductwork for leaks. If you notice any leaks, seal them to keep the cold air inside your home. Sealing the ducts also prevents dust from causing blockages and poor air quality.
Clean Around the Outdoor Unit
A clear outdoor unit is important for preventing overheating, which can lead to system strain and failure. Start by removing leaves, twigs and other debris from around the condenser. You also want to move patio furniture and outdoor gear away from the unit. There should be 2 feet of clearance around the condenser.
Clean the Evaporator and Condenser Coils
Keep the evaporator and condenser coils clean to prevent freezing, overheating, breakdowns and higher energy bills. Cleaning the coils also improves performance and energy efficiency. Plus, it extends your system’s life span. You may need to clean your coils frequently because of the dusty, dry conditions. We’ll inspect and clean your coils during your professional maintenance.
Check and Clear the Drain Line
Check the condensate drain line for algae or blockages, which can cause mold or water damage. Use a wet-dry vacuum to remove the blockages. Additionally, you can use one to two cups of hot water, distilled white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide to kill mold. Remember to secure the PVC cap after cleaning. If you need assistance checking and clearing the drain line, contact our team at Hermetic Heating & Air.
Adjust the Thermostat Settings
Adjusting your thermostat settings is a great way to prevent straining the system and raising your energy bills. It’s best to set your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit when you’re home. When you’re away, set the thermostat to a higher temperature. Upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat allows you to adjust the temperature through a remote, an app or scheduling.
Manage the Indoor Humidity Levels
When indoor humidity reaches 50% or above, the air feels hot, sticky and muggy. As a result, your AC works harder than needed to cool your home, leading to wasted energy and potential breakdowns. You should aim to keep the humidity level between 30% and 50%. You can manage the humidity by sealing air leaks and turning on the kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans. For extra-muggy spaces, consider a dehumidifier. Managing the indoor humidity creates a comfortable environment, prevents breakdowns and lowers energy bills.
Test the Cooling System
You also need to test your cooling system to confirm it’s working properly. Turn on the AC before summer to ensure strong, cool airflow. If you notice any issues, contact our team immediately. In addition, we’ll test your cooling system during our seasonal maintenance. Testing the system in advance allows us to identify and address potential issues before the heat becomes unbearable.
Supplement Your Cooling System
Use other cooling methods to prevent cranking up the AC or running it around-the-clock. For instance, closing the curtains during the day blocks the sunlight and excessive heat. Ceiling fans push cool air downward while other fans circulate it around the room. Window fans are a great option for spaces without an air conditioner. Even simple changes like switching to LED lightbulbs can make a difference. LEDs produce 70% less heat than incandescent bulbs. On mild days, open a window to let in the natural air.
Pay Attention to Warning Signs
Whether you’re testing the system or turning it on early, it’s crucial to pay attention to signs of trouble. This way, you can contact our team before minor issues escalate to major repairs or replacements.
Pay attention to these warning signs that you need an AC repair or replacement:
- Weak airflow
- Warm air
- Short cycling
- Constant running
- Strange sounds
- Unusual smells
- High humidity levels
- Ice buildup
- Water leaks
- Refrigeration leaks
- Spiked energy bills
If you notice any problems with your AC, don’t wait until it breaks down to call for help. Contact a technician immediately to prevent a summer without a working air conditioner.
Schedule AC Services With Hermetic Heating & Air Today
Our company has provided AC services throughout the area since 2020. Every technician on our team has undergone training for AC maintenance, repair and installation. For issues that cannot wait, we provide 24/7 emergency AC repairs. We also offer heating repair, installation and maintenance. If you want to combine your heating and cooling, ask about our heat pumps. Other services include duct replacement, whole-home air purification and commercial HVAC. Whether you’re at home or work, we want to make sure your space is comfortable, functional and healthy. We’re proud to have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
If you’re looking for high-quality AC services in the Coachella Valley, look no further than Hermetic Heating & Air. Reach out to let us keep your home cool and comfortable this summer.
