Summer in Kansas City is known for being hot and humid. And if you’re home isn’t ready for it, it can wreak havoc on your home’s HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems.
We've created a checklist to help you prepare for the summer and keep your air conditioning bill manageable. This guide covers everything from inspecting your AC unit to inspecting your sump pump, ensuring a stress-free summer.
Prepare Your Kansas City Area Home for Summer with These Tips
Get all of your home’s core systems ready for the summer heat with this handy guide. While your AC unit does most of the work, don’t overlook how seasonal changes impact your home’s plumbing and electrical components!
Your Summer HVAC Maintenance Checklist
- Keep your cool. Start with a visual inspection of your air conditioner. Look at the outdoor unit for damage, debris, or things blocking the evaporator and condenser coils. Inside, check the condenser drain for clogs or mold. You can clean the drain line by flushing it with a mix of water and vinegar.
- Switch the thermostat. After switching from heat to cool settings, monitor your thermostat to see if it maintains the correct temperature.
- Schedule a tune-up. An AC tune-up is designed to help ease the transition from heating to cooling. During your appointment, a member of our team will calibrate and lubricate the internal mechanisms that keep your unit running smoothly and identify any areas that may require repair.
When to Turn Off Your Heat for Summer
Wait for warm temperatures before turning off your heating system for the season. Look at the long-range weather forecast to see if temperatures will be consistently above 60°F and overnight lows will stay above 40°F.
Summer Plumbing Checklist
Cold winters and freeze-thaw cycles in spring can both be tough on your home’s plumbing system. As you transition to warmer days, avoid summer plumbing issues by:
- Checking your 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.
- Adjust your water heater. Consider lowering your water heater's temperature by a few degrees. (120°F is ideal for saving money.) Then take a moment to look for signs of wear and tear.
- Spring or early summer is a great time to drain your water heater tank to remove sediment buildup. Do this annually for best results.
- Inspect your sump pump. It’s important that there’s nothing on the floor around the sump pump that could fall into the tank and that any debris in the water is removed. If your unit has a test function, use it to check for proper activation. Remember, your sump pump could be critical in preventing a spring or summer flood.
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, efficiency of the system, and indoor and outdoor temperature differences. On average, cooling accounts for nearly half of a home’s summer electricity consumption.
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 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: The Basics of Home Energy Efficiency
Get Your Home Ready for Summer with Mission Plumbing Heating & Cooling
Count on our friendly, experienced technicians to help you prep for summer cooling season. We take pride in our reliable, cost-effective home services, and we’re always ready to help when you need it most.
Contact our friendly team or call 913-347-5425 to schedule your appointment today. We look forward to helping you!