Get Your Home Ready for Summer

Summer is fast approaching and it’s a good time for homeowners to start preparing their homes for warmer weather. Making sure your HVAC systems are working properly and efficiently will not only keep your home cool, but also help keep electricity bills low this season.

Brought to you in partnership with Trane Residential.

1. Seasonal Maintenance Check – The first step on any HVAC maintenance checklist is to ensure your system is working properly. Like a car, you should schedule maintenance checkups and cleanings on your HVAC system before the warmest months arrive. You want to be confident that system is running smoothly and efficiently, so you can depend on it when you need it most. Dirty and poor functioning AC units are inefficient units that translate into higher utility bills, so keep yours performing at its peak. What might seem like a minor issue now could become an expensive one later if you don’t address it.
2. Seal air leaks and ensure insulation is up to date – Small gaps around doors and windows allow cool air to escape from the home. So, it’s important to double-check weather stripping to ensure it’s not broken or damaged and caulk any gaps or cracks around windows, baseboards, exterior brickwork, plumping, and electrical outlets. Additionally, consider whether your insulation needs to be replaced. Insulation keeps cool air inside during the summer months – like a lunch box keeps your food cold with an ice pack inside. It also decreases the amount of time . It’s recommended that insulation should be replaced every 15-20 years, as it breaks down over time. By sealing these areas and ensuring your insulation is up to date, you’ll reduce airflow and overall efficiency will improve, keeping your home cool and lower your electricity bill! 
   • While it can be tempting to turn home renovations into DIY projects to stay within budget, keep in mind that those involving abatement, electrical, HVAC, or structural work always require the assistance of a professional for your safety and the safety of everyone in your home. Without professional guidance, the results can be disastrous. 
3. Check Your Filters – We recommend checking your HVAC filters every 30 days and replacing disposable filters or cleaning reusable ones every 30-90 days to ensure your HVAC system is running as efficiently as possible. Airflow is slowed by a dirty air filter, which causes your HVAC to work harder and will subsequently increase your energy bill. Through the current partnership with FilterTime™, Trane is offering homeowners the convenience of purchasing air filters and having them delivered with free shipping. By using the Trane Home app or visiting TraneFilters.com, homeowners can make a one-time filter purchase or sign up for ongoing subscription options.
4. Invest in a Smart Thermostat – Smart thermostats provide programming control, so you’re able to manage your home’s heating and cooling from your smartphone, tablet, or desktop using a WiFi connection. With some models, you can even set a heating and cooling schedule, so when you book your summer vacation, you can relax knowing that you aren’t wasting money overcooling an empty home. What’s more, you can also pair a reliable smart thermostat with a whole home humidifier or dehumidifier to manage moisture within your home. Reducing the humidity level can make a space feel more comfortable in warmer temperatures. 
5. Upgrading to an All-Electric System – If it is ultimately time for a new HVAC system, opting for a more energy-efficient system like a heat pump can make you a great candidate for tax credits and rebates while increasing the home’s resale value.  Of note, the new Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) provides a combination of tax credits and rebates for purchases such as heat pumps. To make the most of the savings, we recommend contacting your local  Trane Comfort Specialist, who can explain what money-saving options are available to you, as the rebate programs vary from state to date and can differ depending on your income. You can also visit Trane’s website where they list offers and rebates based on your zip code.