Preparing for excessive heat in the Las Vegas summer can make the difference between surviving and thriving. Once the heat hits, it is too late to prepare, and you either face the risks of costly repairs. Taking the time you need prior to the end of spring is essential to staying comfortable and cool throughout the summer season. In this article we will discuss preparing your home for ultra dry and excessive summer heat.
Schedule AC System Maintenance
Before you turn your air conditioning system on for the first time in the season it is best to have a seasonal maintenance service performed on your system. During this maintenance your AC technician will visually examine all the essential and working elements of your AC unit and replace or clean necessary elements. Here are some of the most routine elements you can expect to have occur during your AC system maintenance prior to summer in Las Vegas:
1) Replace or clean air conditioner filters
2) Clean the condenser coils
3) Visually examine coolant lines and possible confirm by touching them
4) Remove all debris from the condenser
5) Check drain lines
6) Check power and connection lines
7) Check duct connection
8) Test the unit
Why Pre Summer Maintenance Is Essential
Over the previous summer and winter season your air filters can easily get clogged with a thick layer of dirt, dust, and debris. With recent rainy and windy weather this is especially true this year compared to previous years. When a layer of dirt builds up on the filters it forces your AC unit to work harder in order to keep your home cool and comfortable. This can cause your system to strain and break. Before that happens you may see a number of signs such as:
Higher energy bills: As your AC unit has to work longer to cool your home and harder as it works this will result in more energy usage and therefore a higher energy bill. Comparing this year’s bill to last year, in terms of wattage used, is a good indicator of a system working overtime to keep you comfortable.
A frozen or leaking indoor unit: Due to the relatively low humidity in Las Vegas this is a less likely scenario, but one still worth mentioning. Caused by an accumulation of moisture at the evaporator coil, a frozen indoor AC unit may stop working or to leak water when evaporator coil ice defrosts and melts, an indoor unit freeze is created due to warm air not properly blowing over the evaporator coil.
Inconsistent indoor air comfort: Windy and dusty conditions along with poor air quality conditions often result in clogged filters. As your AC works harder to draw air through your filters the resulting air doesn’t cool as quickly or efficiently. Over time this may result in your home not cooling down to temperatures that you consider to be comfortable.
Preventing these, and many other, AC system issues is simple when you have a routine maintenance service performed by highly trained technicians. At No Sweat Air Conditioning we offer annual and seasonal maintenance services with our reliable HVAC contractor. Join our Cool Club and when you do you will receive these services that extend the life of your unit, and any repairs or replacement needs you have along the way are offered at a discount from the members of our team.
Other Ways To Stay Cool In Las Vegas Summers
Avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat is one obvious way to stay cool during Las Vegas summers, but if you must go outdoors you should consider wearing lightweight clothing in light colors, taking frequent and regular breaks, and drinking plenty of water. The clothing you wear should protect you from sun, and yes that means long sleeve shirts. You may also consider investing in accessories designed to offer shade and cooling comfort such as a sunbrellas, sun hats, or frozen neck or waist cooling bands.