Sweltering temperatures during summer in Nashua, NH can lead to your HVAC system working overtime to keep your home comfortable. Unfortunately, this can strain your system and lead to problems such as failure of your HVAC equipment. There are steps you can take to avoid HVAC breakdowns during Nashua’s summer heatwaves, and Joyce Cooling & Heating Inc. is here to help.
Address Your HVAC Filter
The filter in your HVAC system not only supports safe and healthy indoor air quality, but it protects interior components as well. Most filters require that you change them or clean them every 30 to 90 days. The manufacturer of the filter should have included instructions for maintenance. You can also check with our team to see what we recommend. In between changes, check your filter for signs of debris buildup. Hold your filter up to a light and check to see if there is still some transparency left. If not, change your filter. You should also inspect for any signs of damage or clumps of debris on your filter’s surface.
If you leave a dirty filter in your HVAC system, this can restrict airflow. Your AC will need to work harder to keep up with your temperature demands. This can lead to frequent repair needs and a shorter system lifespan. You may find that your HVAC system fails completely if strain becomes consistent and excessive.
Checking Refrigerant Levels
Part of seasonal HVAC maintenance includes inspecting your refrigerant levels and lines. If there is a leak, your AC will become strained due to a lack of refrigerant, potentially shutting down your HVAC system. If you are still using the refrigerant R410-A, which is being phased out, consider a system upgrade. Recharging your system with an outdated product can be costly. Not to mention, it’s not an ideal option for the environment.
Inspecting Evaporator Coils
It’s common for evaporator coils to freeze over if certain components of your AC are malfunctioning. If the freezing becomes excessive or there is water pooling inside your AC unit, you may experience a shutdown of your equipment. Part of routine maintenance from our team includes inspecting these coils, cleaning them and servicing them when necessary.
Scheduling Routine Maintenance
Routine maintenance should be scheduled at least once per year. This is an opportunity for our team to check components like coils, fans, belts and compressors for signs of wear or damage. Fixing problems early on can prevent equipment failure in many cases. This can also lengthen HVAC life expectancy.
Surge Protection Installation
When summer storms roll through the area, it’s common to experience fluctuations in voltage. This can damage your HVAC system and shut it down temporarily. A surge protector on your HVAC circuit can prevent damage to capacitors and control boards.
Ductwork Inspection and Service
Have your ductwork inspected periodically. We want to spot small holes, cracks and gaps that can lead to airflow problems and poor indoor air quality. We can seal your ducting using sealants or mastic tape if the damage is minor. More extensive damage may require replacement of ducting.
We recommend that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years. More frequently if you or someone in your home suffers from allergies or you have pets in the home. Duct cleaning can prevent particulate matter from circulating through your living spaces and accumulating on the interior components of your HVAC system.
Ensuring Optimal Insulation Levels
Another way to prevent HVAC strain and subsequent failure is to have the insulation level in your home checked. Insulation helps keep cool air inside during the summer months and warm air out. This can minimize the amount of time that you need to run your air conditioner.
If you have areas of your residence that lack insulation, you can have more added. The goal is to achieve a high R-value, which represents the amount of resistance that insulation provides. Certain insulation products can be layered on top of one another. You can also invest in a product like spray foam insulation, which effectively insulates all the small crevices in your attic, basement, walls and ceilings. Insulation upgrades are often eligible for tax incentives or rebates, which helps offset the initial investment.
Program Your Thermostat
Minimize the amount of time you run your HVAC system when you’re away from home. If you’re going to be at work or on vacation during the summer, have your interior temperature change to 78 degrees Fahrenheit. You can have the temperature adjust when you return home for better comfort.
If you don’t already have one, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat. This device allows you to make remote adjustments to your HVAC system to boost efficiency and minimize unnecessary runtime. Some smart thermostats can learn your heating and cooling preferences, making changes or recommendations for you.
Some smart thermostats can alert you when it’s time to schedule routine maintenance or when your HVAC system is malfunctioning. You can quickly give us a call to schedule an appointment to minimize the risk of a complete system failure.
This is another scenario where you can utilize rebates or incentives. Many power companies offer discounts for a smart thermostat upgrade.
Utilize Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are a great tool for making your home feel cooler during a heatwave. Make sure fans are set in a counterclockwise direction. This creates a windchill effect that allows you to reduce HVAC system use.
Window Habits
Close curtains or use blackout shades when the sun is at its highest point and shining directly into your home. This will prevent certain rooms from getting very warm, which normally would result in the use of your air conditioner. Also, open your windows and doors during times of the day when temperatures aren’t very extreme. This is usually the first thing in the morning and late in the evening.
Keep Vents and Registers Open
Never close off vents or registers in your home to redirect airflow or improve system efficiency. Do not place furniture over or too close to your vents. These bad habits can restrict airflow and cause issues with your HVAC system. If you need to adjust where cool air is going, consider adjusting the dampers that are in your ductwork. You can upgrade your HVAC system with smart dampers or vents. These things will adjust automatically to provide you with a more consistently comfortable and cool home.
When Your HVAC System Fails
If the unfortunate scenario occurs when your HVAC system fails, be prepared to stay cool until we can arrive to help you. Make sure you have plenty of water available to help you stay hydrated. Portable fans or a window AC unit can keep you somewhat cool for the time being. If you need to head to a local cooling center while you wait for help to arrive, do so.
You don’t have to be left with a failing HVAC system this summer in Nashua. Our team at Joyce Cooling & Heating Inc. can assist you with the installation of new equipment, performing routine maintenance or addressing emergency repairs. Contact Joyce Cooling & Heating Inc. today to schedule an appointment in Nashua.
