Summer is coming and for the greater Birmingham area, that means hot weather, which will put a strain on our HVAC and plumbing systems. We all know that extreme surges of heat will put a strain on our AC systems, but did you know that the summer can be harsh on your heating system as well? Luckily, Guin Service is here to provide you with the summer’s five most commonly overlooked HVAC and plumbing issues.
From the systems we leave idle over the summer to those that are tested in ways we wouldn’t otherwise imagine, there’s much more to know about summer HVAC and plumbing maintenance than meets the eye. Let’s take a look at what Guin’s experts have to say on the matter.
The Summer’s Five Most Overlooked Plumbing & HVAC Issues
Overlooking the AC’s Overgrowth
As a homeowner or landlord, you’re going to want to make sure you don’t overlook the overgrowth this summer.
Your AC unit requires breathing space to perform optimally. Plants, vines, weeds, and kudzu can overcome your air conditioner. Closed in by vegetation, airflow will cause problems with the AC’s condenser, at the very least. Make sure your AC unit has at least five feet of breathing space around it–before high summer’s heat chokes it off when you need it most.
Communicate with the Compressor
The compressor is a major part of any HVAC system. But it relies on refrigerant, and when the refrigerant is running low, your AC unit is likely to go awry. However, too much refrigerant will supercharge the air conditioner to the point that it starts leaking.
It’s crucial to check that the compressor contains the right amount of refrigerant. But refrigerant is just one aspect of the compressor, which is a nuanced–and integral–aspect of any HVAC unit. It’s best to have one of Guin’s professional technicians come out and check the compressor to make sure everything’s in working order prior to summer’s start.
Garbage Disposal Clearance
Believe it or not, summer foods can make for the toughest jobs on our garbage disposal. The rinds, shells, cores, and bones from our favorite fruits, vegetables, and meat products can jam up the disposal.
Stay mindful of what you put in your garbage disposal over the summer. Should you experience a particularly stubborn clog, schedule an appointment with Guin’s experts to get it sorted out.
Saving Your Sprinkler Head
Rain, wind, storms, and even mowed grass can clog your sprinkler heads just like those summer foods do your garbage disposal. Cleaning out your sprinkler heads on a routine basis will ensure that you avoid any serious clogs.
Spotting a clog is pretty simple. The water’s spray will become irregular. If this happens, do not ignore it. Without fast attention, clogged sprinkler heads will kill patterned areas of your grass.
Tending to the Heating System
One of the biggest reasons that people develop problems with their heating systems is the tendency to overlook them over the summer. We don’t need our heating systems in July (at least, we sure hope not), so why bother until fall or winter come around? Idling HVAC systems develop issues such as:
- Collecting dust, mold, dirt, and debris
- Thermostats stop working
- Critters and rodents incur on passageways and wreak havoc
- Filters collect dust
- Summer renovations knock parts loose
These are just a few of countless examples of issues we overlook with regard to our heating systems over the summer. Having a professional technician from Guin take a look at your heating system at the end of summer can help you avoid a world of hurt when the cold takes you by surprise come fall.
Contact Guin Service for Your Summer Plumbing & HVAC
Regardless of your plumbing and HVAC needs this summer, make sure you reach out to Guin Service. And don’t forget about our Guin Guard program, which offers routine maintenance and repairs at a low, fixed price, saving you money in the long run.
Guin Service: Quality HVAC and Plumbing Services in the Birmingham area
Contact Guin Service, LLC, serving Birmingham, Hoover, and Mountain Brook, AL, to get more information about AC installation. We’ve been in business for 60 years because we make sure our customers are always satisfied. Just give us a call today at 205.595.4846.
(205) 595-4846 
