Increase HVAC Air Flow for Summer Comfort and Savings

We’re entering the months of heavy cooling system use – your air conditioner or heat pump will require a little maintenance to keep up optimal performance. A major component of that is improving air flow to your unit. This summer, perform the following tasks to ensure your cooling system has proper air flow so it can keep you cool without wasting energy.

Change Air Filters

When cooling systems are in use heavily, filters may need changing more frequently than during the off season. Check your filter monthly and change when it becomes filled with debris. Improve air quality and air flow by using a high-efficiency air filter – look for one with a MERV rating of 8 to 12 for residential use.

Clear Vents

When vents and return air grilles in the home are covered, your cooling system doesn’t get the air flow it needs, nor can it release the conditioned air you need to cool your home. Check around the home periodically to ensure no carpeting, rugs, furniture, or other items are covering your registers, vents, and grilles. Closing vents to unused areas of the home isn’t the smartest energy saving strategy – zoning systems are ideal, as they help you to conserve energy and protect air flow through the HVAC system.

Clean Exterior Units

With summer yard work and storms, grass clippings and debris can be blown onto the air conditioner’s exterior condenser or outdoor heat pump. When your unit becomes clogged with these debris, it cannot move air properly through the system. Keep exterior units clean and remove debris. Also, clear back all vegetation and never store items surrounding the unit. If you want to build an air conditioner enclosure, always leave a clearance of two feet and use material that allows air to flow through to the unit.

If your air conditioner or heat pump is suffering from limited air flow this summer, call Climate Control. We’ll diagnose your cooling system and perform the needed fixes to boost efficiency and performance.