Monsoon Tips for your Air Conditioning System and Home

Photo taken by Jeff Beamish

In late June, the heat rises to uncomfortable levels. Dry grasses bake in relentless sun and shade is favored over distance while parking. Then the wind picks up. Clouds start rolling in. Cumulus thunderclouds blacken the sky, and most Arizonans wait anxiously to listen to the first drops of the rhythm of the rain.

Rain is much needed here in Arizona. However, monsoon storms can be destructive. That's why it's important to be one step ahead of the storm and take proper measures so your family is prepared for chances of a potential monsoon fallout.

1. Trim back vegetation.

Prune your trees so there aren’t branches touching your roof or house. If branches are too close, there is a chance they will smash into your home. Remove any branches that look dead; they’ll be the first to fall during a storm and will prevent excessive cleanup after the storm hits. Also, thin out the leaves. If you have young, fragile trees, stake them to the ground because they will be especially susceptible to damage during a monsoon storm.

    2. Replace your air filters.

System air filters can get clogged quickly during dust storms. Start off the season by replacing them, and then make sure to check them frequently – particularly after a storm. By doing so, you’ll enable your air conditioner to run more efficiently while also improving your indoor air quality.

     3. Consider Moving your AC unit to higher ground.

Besides being struck by debris or potential lighting power surges, the other leading cause of AC damage during monsoon season is flooding. The only practical way to reducing this potential threat is to consider moving your cooling unit to a higher platform.

     4. Get a tune up.

This is the time of year when you definitely don’t want to experience a system failure. Temperatures can climb into the 90s inside your home if it’s not air conditioned. Don’t take the chance!! Get a tune up to ensure everything is running smoothly. Call Excel Mechanical, Inc. today to schedule a maintenance tune up.

Indoor Air Quality Tips to Reduce Allergens

 

Spring can be a beautiful time of the year... But if you are one of the 50 million Americans that suffer from seasonal allergies, spring can be a drag. Fortunately, these simple HVAC Maintenance tips will help reduce the amount of indoor allergens, and will keep symptoms in check.



1. Invest in high-quality furnace air filters.

Search for Air Filters with a MERV 8 rating or more to catch more miniscule particles. High quality furnace filters should be your first course of action when fighting against poor air quality in your home. Check filters monthly and replace them at least every three months

2. Keep indoor pets well groomed.

Pets can carry allergens, pollen and mold can be trapped on their coats from being outside but regular washing and grooming can keep allergen levels down. If you have pets that are primarily outdoors, it may be best to keep them out of the bedroom to lessen allergens.

3. Check pollen count forecast and plan the day accordingly.

Pollen.com offers you a national allergy forecast, so you can stay updated on pollen counts and allergens.

4. Invest in air quality products.

There are countless products available that will make the air in your home feel fresh and clean. Air Purifiers extinguish pollutants and particles directly in the air, cleansing it first hand.
Make sure that the unit you choose fits your room's dimensions. A smaller unit in a large room will not be effective. Also, avoid models that generate ozone as part of the cleaning operation. As you shop, look for a higher clean-air delivery rate (CADR) number. The higher the number, the stronger the air-cleaning power of your unit.

5. Schedule an HVAC maintenance appointment.

Spring is a great time to schedule an HVAC maintenance appointment. Not only does regular preventative maintenance keep your system healthy, service by an HVAC professional will help reduce indoor allergens and ensure your system is dust free.