How to Keep Your HVAC System Running Efficiently During Virginia’s Summer Heat

Virginia summers are no joke. They bring soaring temperatures and heavy humidity, two things that put your climate control system to the test. A well-maintained system via a pre-summer HVAC tune-up is necessary to keep your home cool and comfortable. Also, it helps reduce energy costs and prevent costly repairs. Let’s talk about the best ways to keep your air conditioning system running at peak performance all season long so you can enjoy the cool air inside, no matter how hot and humid it is outside.

Schedule a Professional Pre-Summer HVAC Tune-Up

An HVAC tune-up before the heat index starts rising is one of the best investments you can make. Summer is when the system is working at its maximum capacity, and a certified technician knows how to inspect and clean components, check refrigerant levels, and identify potential issues before they become expensive breakdowns. Now is the time to optimize your unit’s performance, and it will also help extend the lifespan of your system. It’s peace of mind—and lower utility bills—all in one visit. Can’t beat that!

Replace or Clean Air Filters Monthly

We often don’t think about dirty filters that restrict airflow and make our system work harder, or the airborne contaminants throughout our home. Replacing your filter regularly for a pre-summer HVAC tune-up (every 30–60 days) improves efficiency, enhances indoor air quality, reduces wear and tear on your unit, and helps ease common allergies,  asthma, and respiratory symptoms. Setting a monthly reminder so you don’t forget this important task may be a good idea.

Use a Programmable Thermostat

Smart or programmable thermostats help manage cooling more efficiently by adjusting the temperature based on your schedule. Setting your home a few degrees warmer when you’re away can save energy without sacrificing comfort. It’s natural to leave the house during the summer, whether to go to work, run a few errands, or leave for a vacation, and forget that the thermostat is still guzzling energy when you are gone. A good idea is to keep the temperature programmed to 78°F when you are home and 85°F when the house is empty. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at the savings.

Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear

Check your outdoor condenser unit regularly and do some pre-summer HVAC tune-up. Clear away leaves, grass, and debris, and keep shrubs trimmed back at least 2 feet to ensure proper airflow. Be sure to cut back any landscaping that may be too close to the unit and remove any toys, tools, or other items blocking it. Doing this will ensure your unit can expel heat outside and keep your home comfortable.

Seal Ductwork and Insulate

Leaky ducts and poorly insulated attics allow cooled air to escape, forcing your system to work harder than it should. Sealing and insulating these areas improve comfort and reduce energy loss. Having leaky ducts can cause your HVAC to use up to 20% more energy, which can wreak havoc on your monthly budget.

Sign Up for a Maintenance Plan

We hope you learned a lot regarding pre-summer HVAC tune-up. One of the easiest ways to ensure year-round performance is by joining a maintenance plan like our Signature Service Plan. You’ll get scheduled service, priority support, and peace of mind knowing your air conditioning system is being adequately cared for by professionals. Don’t Let the Heat Win—Stay Ahead of the Summer Strain. You’ll love seeing how the cost pays more than it costs for itself in terms of energy savings. It is one of the best things you can do to protect your climate control system, reduce energy bills, and keep the cool air flowing properly throughout your entire home.

Regular maintenance or a pre-summer HVAC tune-up keeps your system running strong through Virginia’s hottest months. Don’t let the idea of a high energy bill cause you to sweat! Contact us today to schedule your tune-up or learn more about our Signature Service Plan. Your comfort is worth it!