Temperatures are rising and many of you are reaching for that dial to crank up the air conditioning in order to beat the heat. It’s sat idle for months and while you hope that it’ll kick on without a glitch, a lot of the times that is not the case. Follow these steps before the heat hits to ensure your AC will keep you cool when you need it. To be safe, don’t forget to turn off the power to your unit before doing any maintenance.
OUTDOOR UNIT
- Remove any covers that you’ve used to keep the unit clean and free of debris. These are great to use during winter months to protect it from leaves or dirt when it is not in use. However, they are not necessary during the summer months and will block the airflow and limit heat transfer. This will cause your unit to work harder than necessary and can result in irreversible damage.
- Clear out any debris that may have been trapped in the coil. Trash, leaves, or other debris can get trapped in your unit over the winter months and any blockage will limit the system’s performance.
- Inspect electrical panels to ensure they are not missing, damaged or misaligned. You don’t want any of the electrical components exposed for your safety and for the safety of your unit. Call a qualified professional if the panel covering the electrical connections are missing or damaged.
- Check pipe insulation of the refrigerant line. The larger of the two pipes leading into the indoor unit brings cool refrigerant back to the compressor of the outdoor unit. If the insulation is damaged it could prevent the outdoor unit from cooling which will cause energy loss and possible damage.
INDOOR UNIT
- Replace the air filter within your unit. We can not stress enough the importance of regularly replacing your air filter. A neglected filter can wreak havoc on your system. A clean filter promotes cleaner air and a more efficient system. You can read more about it here and learn why it is important.
- Check the condensation drain of the coil. The drain is responsible for removing the moisture collected from the humid air in your home while the air conditioner is running. Water will condense on the outside of the coil because of the difference in temperature and will drip in the tray below. Check to make sure the water is draining to avoid a costly repair from water damage. Ensure the coil has not been bumped out of place or broken.
- Clean air vents that supply or return air. Make sure they are open and and free of debri. Use a vacuum to eliminate dust, dirt, or pet dander that may have accumulated from the last season. Keeping the vents clean will promote efficient airflow and healthier air.
When you turn on your air conditioner after a period of inactivity, make sure it is emitting cool air within a few minutes and continues throughout the day. If no air is coming out or the air is not cool, something isn’t working properly. You can take time to review the steps above and try again, or you can count on a cooling expert to help get the job done. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity of your AC system but if you are too busy or unable to take care of it, you don’t have to worry. It’s easy to schedule an appointment to have a professional do a thorough inspection. We’ll make sure you’re comfortable in your home when the summer heat hits.
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