4 Quick Tasks to Get Your Home Ready for Summer

June 15, 2018

Summer in Charleston means warmer weather, lazy days by the pool, and family vacations. However, don’t get so busy that you forget to prepare your home before the temperature climbs too high. These quick tasks can make a big difference in your comfort level and your utility bills during the hottest months of the year.

Make a Preemptive Strike Against Pollen

While spring is commonly considered allergy season, some types of pollen peak later in the summer. You can be ready by making sure the filters in your HVAC unit are clean. Consider switching to a higher MERV filter, if the manufacturer recommends it for your system. They can block a higher percentage of pollen and impurities than standard ones.

Take a Stroll to Check Your Exterior Vents

If your home is built on a crawl space, walk around the outside and take a look at the vents. Remove any leaves and dirt that have collected in front of them. Check the screens carefully for any holes that could let insects enter your home. When the vents are clear, fresh air circulates more easily through your home, which means improved indoor air quality.

Make an Adjustment to Your Ceiling Fans

Take a few seconds to reverse the direction of your ceiling fans from clockwise to counterclockwise. In this mode, the blades push cooler air down into the room, keeping the temperature lower. Your HVAC unit runs less, so you can save a few bucks on your utility costs.

Take a Look at Your Windows

Even if your HVAC unit is operating at maximum efficiency, the Charleston heat and humidity are formidable. Evaluate your home during the peak sunshine hours to see which windows let in the most light. Hang blinds, curtains, or another type of window covering to block some of the rays and reduce the temperature.

These are just a few quick steps that you can take to prepare your home for summer. If you’d like a thorough evaluation of your HVAC system, give AC Heating and Air Conditioning Service a call at (843) 277-9928.

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