There’s no bad time of year to live in Clearwater, but the summer heat and humidity can make it challenging to get comfortable outdoors or without an air conditioner. The last thing you want is for your AC unit to fail during a heatwave!
Just like your AC, your plumbing and electrical systems are critical to living comfortably. Take advantage of the spring weather and check to ensure your home’s utilities are ready to handle the heat. Follow our summer prep checklist and check out our tips for lowering your home’s energy bills.
How to Prepare Your Home for Summer
Before the summer cooling season begins, take stock of your AC, plumbing, and electrical systems. Pay special attention to the items listed below to maximize the benefits of your efforts.
HVAC Maintenance Guide for Summer
- Prep your air conditioning system. Get your AC for summer with a visual inspection. Start by examining the outdoor unit for any signs of damage, debris buildup, or obstructions around the evaporator and condenser coils. Inside, check the condenser drain for blockages or mold growth. You can flush the drain line with a mixture of water and vinegar to help maintain it.
- Switch the thermostat. After switching from heat to cool settings, monitor your thermostat to see if it maintains the correct temperature.
- Get a tune-up. We recommend scheduling a tune-up to prepare your AC for summer before temperatures rise. Summer HVAC maintenance is all about easing the transition from heating to cooling, and FAST of Florida will identify any issues that could cause bigger problems later on.
Summer Plumbing Tips
- Cold winters and freeze-thaw cycles in spring can be harsh on your home’s plumbing system. As you transition to warmer days, you can avoid summer plumbing issues by inspecting pipes, lines, and fixtures. Here’s how to do it.
- Check your water lines. Visually inspect faucets, fixtures, and easily accessible pipes for leaks, drips, or signs of damage. Don’t forget about outdoor faucets and underground sprinkler systems, which have borne the brunt of winter’s chill.
- Check your water heater. Consider lowering your water heater's temperature by a few degrees. (120°F is ideal for saving money.) Take a moment to inspect for signs of wear and tear. Spring or early summer is a great time to drain your water heater tank to remove sediment buildup.
- Check your sump pump. Look for debris, listen for proper activation, and use the test function (if available) to verify that it is working correctly.
How to Save Money on Your Electric Bill in the Summer
Since most air conditioning systems run on electricity, a scorching-hot summer can quickly burn a hole in your wallet. Wondering how to lower your electricity bill this summer? Focus on weatherizing and insulation. Proper air sealing and insulation can help save up to 15% on your Clearwater home’s total heating and cooling costs, especially during the coldest and hottest days of the year. Summer is also a great time to invest in a smart thermostat to lower your summer energy bills!
Read more: How to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
What Uses the Most Electricity in a Home During Summer?
It’s probably no surprise that air conditioning uses the most energy during the summer, compared to other major systems. The precise energy expenditure varies based on the size of the home, the efficiency of the system, and the differences in indoor and outdoor temperatures. On average, cooling accounts for nearly half of a home’s summer electricity consumption.
Get Your Home Ready for Summer with FAST of Florida
Don’t rely on the ocean breeze to cool your home this summer. Count on our experienced, Clearwater-based technicians to provide reliable, cost-effective home services when you need them most.
Contact us online or call 727-273-7810 to get started today!