Summer is fast approaching, and this year is predicted to be sizzling hot and dry. To be as comfortable as possible, you need to prepare your AC for summer. This means completing all maintenance procedures. What are they? Continue reading to learn more.
Why Air Conditioning Maintenance Matters Before Summer
Avoid Unexpected Breakdowns
The worst thing that could happen in the middle of a scorching hot summer day is that your AC suddenly breaks down. You can imagine the frustration of being unable to escape the heat, whether staying inside with a broken AC or going outside where the heat is unbearable.
Performing regular HVAC maintenance ensures that this does not happen to you or your family. Because during a hot summer, you want to be able to spend time outside in the sun and then cool down at home.
Improve Energy Efficiency
A well-maintained air conditioner means it is operating at peak efficiency, utilizing the energy required to cool the home effectively. Having a poorly conditioned AC means that it has to work harder to achieve the desired temperature inside the house.
In the intense heat of summer, your air conditioner will use a lot of energy, resulting in higher utility bills just to keep you comfortable indoors. Maintenance ensures that your AC is in good working order, which improves energy efficiency and saves you money on energy bills.
Extend the Life of Your System
HVAC systems, like any other machine, require regular maintenance to extend their life. Regular maintenance ensures that all of the machine’s components continue to function properly, and if anything fails, it can be identified and replaced or repaired as needed.
By performing regular air conditioning maintenance, you can avoid the need to replace your air conditioner as frequently, ensuring that your cooling system is ready for many summers to come.
Your Complete Air Conditioning Maintenance Checklist
1. Replace or Clean the Air Filter
Over time, the AC’s air filter will become clogged with dust and dirt, reducing airflow. If your air conditioner isn’t blowing air properly, it could be due to a dirty air filter. Depending on how frequently you use it, you should clean or replace it every three months.
Keep your air filter clean at all times to ensure it performs optimally and provides the cool air you desire during the summer months.
2. Clean the Outdoor Condenser Unit
Just like the filter, an outdoor condenser unit can become clogged. The outdoor unit is crucial for releasing heat from your home. Therefore, you want to ensure that no debris, such as leaves, accumulates on the Fins. Otherwise, it will block proper airflow.
When cleaning, use a hose to spray the fins from the inside out gently. It’s also a good idea to trim any nearby vegetation to prevent it from becoming entangled with the unit.
3. Check and Clear Drain Lines
Drain lines are essential for removing condensation from the air conditioner. Over time, algae and debris can accumulate, causing water backups and even system shutdowns. Clear the blockages with water or a dry or wet vacuum.
4. Inspect the Thermostat
A malfunctioning thermostat can sometimes be the source of AC issues for homeowners. This can be easily resolved by checking the accuracy of the displayed temperature. Try different settings and see how they respond.
If the readings continue to be inaccurate, you should check the battery. Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat to increase energy efficiency.
5. Examine Ductwork for Leaks or Blockages
Ductwork issues, such as leaks or blockages, can significantly reduce the efficiency of your air conditioner. Solving these issues will necessitate professional assistance, as it entails extensive work, such as sealing the ducts to ensure there are no holes.
6. Inspect Refrigerant Levels
The refrigerant is responsible for delivering cool air by cycling through a process of absorbing heat indoors and releasing it outside. To ensure that your air conditioner can provide cool air, a sufficient amount of refrigerant is required. If your refrigerant level continues to drop, it may indicate a leak, causing the system to underperform or freeze up.
7. Tighten Electrical Connections and Inspect Wiring
Loose or damaged electrical connections can lead to system failures or safety risks. Turn off the power to the unit, then inspect the accessible wiring and connections for wear, corrosion, or looseness. Tighten any loose connections using a screwdriver. For complicated electrical issues, hire a professional.
8. Lubricate Moving Parts
Your air conditioning system consists of many moving parts, and these need to run smoothly to ensure optimal operation. To prevent any friction, lubricate the moving parts with a few drops of lightweight machine oil in these areas. Always refer to the manufacturer’s manual to locate lubrication points, such as the fan motor bearings.
9. Test System Startup and Shutdown
A full system test ensures that the unit starts, runs, and shuts down properly. Turn on the system and listen for unusual noises that could indicate loose components or debris. Check that the system cycles correctly and maintains the desired temperature.
We recommend scheduling a professional tune-up every 1-2 years to ensure a thorough inspection.
DIY Maintenance vs. Professional Tune-Ups
What You Can Safely Do Yourself
Some of the steps above, like cleaning the air filter, removing debris and dirt from the outdoor unit, and double-checking the thermostat settings, can be safely done by yourself.
If the steps are followed correctly, these simple procedures can be completed successfully. However, if you want to ensure that all procedures, even the simple ones, are completed correctly and effectively, the pros are your go-to.
Choose Johnson’s HVAC
The professionals have the necessary experience, skills, and equipment to complete the maintenance job efficiently and safely. If you choose professional assistance, you can be confident that any problems with your air conditioner will be appropriately addressed. Remember that attempting to resolve HVAC problems on your own risks not only your safety but also further damage to the system due to a lack of experience and the right tools. If in doubt, always seek professional assistance.
Look no further than Johnson’s HVAC! We are the experts, and we can help ensure that your air conditioner is ready to provide you with much-needed cooling comfort after a day of fun in the sun. Contact us today!
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