With temperatures like we’ve had lately, you’d think it’s been summer for a while now! If you haven’t already, you’ll need your HVAC system in top condition. With four simple tips, you can ensure your unit will get you through the long, hot months ahead.
1. Clean Around Your Compressor
Your central air conditioning’s compressor is outside of your home. It serves the purpose of creating the cool air that enters into your ducts. Unfortunately, leaves and other debris can accumulate around this part and even enter it during the year, causing your unit to not work as effectively.
Before you start using your HVAC unit this summer, you should clear away branches, leaves and any other debris on and around your compressor. You should also routinely inspect around the device to ensure it remains clean throughout the summer so that it will continue to operate at maximum efficiency.
2. Check Your Filter
Your filter accrues dust and other airborne particles. Ultimately, this accumulation affects how efficiently your unit works to cool your home. Prior to running your air conditioner for the first time, you should check the filter. Depending on your system, you’ll either need to replace a disposable one or clean a reusable one.
You may need to change or clean your filter every 30 days or about once every three months, which you can determine by looking at the information that comes with your filter. If you smoke, have allergies or have pets, you may need to change or clean your filter once monthly as well.
3. Clean Your Vents
Even if everything is working properly with your HVAC unit, you may still experience reduced airflow if your vents aren’t clean. For this reason, when you’re preparing your air conditioning for summer, you should also clean your vents.
4. Schedule a HVAC Maintenance Appointment
Ensure your air conditioner will keep you cool throughout the summer by scheduling a routine maintenance appointment before you begin using it. The appointment ensures the major components of your system are in working order.
Some examples of components an HVAC specialist will evaluate include:
- Refrigerant level
- Electrical components
- Condenser coils
- Condenser motor
- Capacitors
- Thermostat
- Transformer
- Drain lines
Importance of an Evaluation
Every part of your air conditioning system serves a purpose. For instance, the refrigerant in your AC unit cools the air before it enters your home. Without refrigerant, your air conditioning can’t blow cold air.
Debris and grime can collect in your system and prohibit your electrical component from making contact, ultimately leading to your system not functioning.
Your compressor is necessary to convert the gas, so the cool air may propel into your home. When it doesn’t work properly, your entire system can’t function. A specialist checks to see if the air pressure may be too high or too low, which could indicate a problem somewhere in your cooling system.
If you haven’t scheduled your AC maintenance appointment yet, give us a call at 1-800-989-0299. We’re here for you 24/7 for all your plumbing and HVAC needs!