Is Your HVAC Ready for Super El Niño?

The summer months require HVAC systems to be constantly running, placing them under heavy strain and increasing the risk of overheating and mechanical failure. 

And with meteorologists expecting above-average temps this year thanks to Super El Niño, many HVAC systems may be pushed beyond their intended capacity. 

That’s why proactive HVAC maintenance and early repairs at the start of the season are essential for preventing catastrophic breakdowns.

“This year’s projected weather patterns point to increased heat and storms, meaning it’s important for homeowners to get ahead of aging or outdated HVAC systems as soon as possible,” explains Scott Pierson, VP of HVAC and market strategy at Parts Town in Addison, IL.

How to prep your HVAC system

Now is the time to get your HVAC system in tip-top shape. Doing so involves three nonnegotiables: coil cleaning, refrigerant level checks, and smart thermostat calibration. 

Here’s what you need to know about each one:

Coil cleaning

Air conditioner coils are some of the most vital parts of an HVAC unit’s operating system. When the unit is used regularly, surface moisture and debris can build up in them. 

“Cleaning coils is vital as dirty coils can lead to decreased cooling, increased cooling costs, increased unit wear, increased operating temperatures, reduced comfort and frequent system repairs,” says Pierson.

Fortunately, this is a fairly simple DIY task. Simply buy coil condenser cleaner online or at a local home improvement store and follow the directions on the label.

Refrigerant level checks 

Low refrigerant levels can significantly raise the risk of HVAC downtime during the cooling season. 

When levels drop, they force HVAC systems to run continuously, which reduces cooling capacity and causes unnecessary stress. 

“Having a technician come in to check your refrigerant levels is key for maintaining efficiencies during peak heat and preventing strain that can lead to mid-season system failures,” Pierson explains.

Smart thermostat calibration 

“Upgrading to a smart thermostat and calibrating it to align with your specific lifestyle and needs can help you better monitor system efficiencies and help stop downtime before it occurs,” says Pierson.

It’s a particularly good idea if you want to be able to make adjustments when the weather changes or you’re traveling. 

The value of proactive HVAC servicing

During heatwaves, your HVAC system can run continuously and in turn, place tremendous strain on every part. 

When an HVAC system runs 18 to 20 hours a day near max capacity, an overheated compressor, failed capacitor, or burned-out fan motor are almost a given.

“Replacement costs around $6,000 to $12,000 plus costly shipping and delivery fees. A unit that can last for five years could easily go out after just three days over 100 Fahrenheit,” says Scott Eyman, project manager at Eyman Plumbing, Heating & Air in La Vista, NE.

Spring HVAC maintenance usually falls between $100 and $200 and will help catch and address problems early. 

“Emergency repairs are one to two times more expensive and when HVAC service contractors are facing an influx of service tickets and parts are in high demand, they can take days, meaning you won’t have AC for a while when you need it most,” adds Eyman.

The importance of early HVAC preparation and proactive checkups are crystal clear. 

And it’s up to you—the homeowner—to understand that so you can take the right steps to improve your system’s efficiency and reduce the risk of a breakdown during the hottest days of the year.

Think of maintaining your HVAC system like changing the oil in your car. 

“Doing it regularly will help your engine run smoothly and prevent a lot of bigger issues. Same goes for your HVAC system,” explains Jimmy Campbell, HVAC expert at Townsend in Danvers, MA.