Make sure that floor grilles are not obstructed and replace the furnace filters. An annual inspection of your system can also be a good habit to adopt. The technician will measure refrigerant pressure and temperatures, check the unit’s noise level, and lubricate moving parts, which could help prevent premature breakdowns during a heat wave.
Furnace filters should be replaced every 2 to 6 months, depending on the model and their efficiency (disposable filters or electronic filters). Also clean pre-filters and ionizing cells.
In the summer, close the basement ventilation grilles to allow cool air to circulate to the upper floors. The basement is cooler than the rest of the house anyway.
In the summer, make sure your humidifier is turned off and the damper is closed. You want to dehumidify your home, not the opposite.
Stop your heat recovery ventilator (HRV) during the summer, as it humidifies your home. If you have an energy recovery ventilator (ERV), leave it running because it captures humidity. If you have a combined HRV/ERV unit for heating and cooling, it is time to switch the cores and install the summer ERV core.