While we can still expect some cooler weather at night, this is about the time when people start making the switch over from heating to cooling. But before turning on your HVAC system for the summer season, it is important to do some cleaning tasks to properly shut down your furnace and prepare your air conditioner. This checklist includes some tips for furnace repair in Los Gatos, CA to prepare your HVAC system for the summer heat.
1. Shut Off the Gas to the Furnace
Shutting off the furnace for the season involves more than just adjusting the thermostat. Even when the furnace isn’t running, it can still use natural gas. This is especially true of older models which use a standing pilot light to ignite burners. A standing pilot light can consume around 6000 to 9000 BTUs per day. So when it comes time to shut down the furnace for the season, you can shut off the flow of natural gas to the furnace. There are usually valves beside both the pilot light and the burner assembly you can use to shut off the gas.
2. Turn Off the Electrical Power to the Furnace
The furnace also has electrical parts such as sensors that can draw power even when the furnace is not in use. So when shutting down the furnace you may also want to cut off the electrical power at the breaker box if you have a standalone furnace. This way it won’t waste energy throughout the summer. However, if your HVAC system includes a central air conditioner, you will want to leave the power on because both the furnace and the air conditioner use the same blower fan and electrical components.
3. Change Out the Air Filters
Another thing you want to do before the start of the summer season is to swap out the air filters. You should be checking your filters at least once a month. A basic strategy is to hold them up to the window and if you can’t see light coming through, it is time to replace them. Most high-efficiency filters can last for three months or more. But during peak usage, you want to make sure they are not obstructed. This will improve efficiency and prolong the life of your HVAC system.
4. Clean and Unblock the Registers
Before running your air conditioning you want to be sure the registers are clean and unobstructed. For optimal efficiency, you want the air to be able to pass freely. To clean the grills you can remove them and vacuum away any dust and pet hair that may have accumulated. Then you can wash them with mild detergent and water before letting them dry and replacing them. You also want to make sure that furniture, rugs, and curtains are not blocking the registers.
5. Clear Debris from the Outdoor Unit
Over the winter and spring dirt, leaves, and debris can accumulate around your outdoor unit. You want to be sure to clear space around the outdoor unit. There should be one to two feet of clearance on all sides for optimal airflow. While cleaning the outdoor unit make note of any damage so you can mention it when the HVAC technician comes out for annual repairs.
Once you have completed these steps, it is time to test your air conditioning and schedule your annual HVAC repair. Looking for reliable air conditioning and furnace repair in Los Gatos, CA? Contact Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning.
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