A central AC unit is a significant investment, so it’s best to do what you can to maintain its functionality. With spring just around the corner and summer soon to follow, now’s the perfect time to make sure your unit is in optimal working condition. At Cold 1 Services, our technicians provide a wide range of air conditioning services to help keep your home cool and your family comfortable all summer long!
Simple Steps to Prepare Your Air Conditioning System for the Warm Season
Below are tips to help you prepare your air conditioner for the upcoming season:
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Clean or replace air filters
One of the best ways to ensure that your air conditioner is in top shape is by cleaning or replacing the filters. It’s recommended that you clean the filter every month because a clogged air filter restricts airflow and has the potential to freeze the coils inside your unit.
Restricted airflow in an air conditioner can also cause the unit to work harder than it should, which will spike your electric bill. You have a wide selection of air filters to choose from, and many accumulate dust much quicker. Simply follow the manufacturer’s recommended directions, and you should be good to go.
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Check the ductwork for leaks
Many homeowners have no issues with their ductwork. However, there are a few situations that might require extra attention. Most forced-air systems share ductwork with the central air system. In this case, the ductwork is probably okay. Yet, it doesn’t hurt to check it for any gaps or obstructions that lead to airflow leaks. Make sure that every seal is intact so that you can guarantee the most efficient airflow. Checking this will ensure that your unit is ready to go when that first hot day hits.
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Clean the coils and condenser
It’s always recommended to clean the coils and the condenser in your unit before firing it up for the first run of the season. The buildup of dust or debris on the condenser can decrease airflow efficiency and heat transfer. The combination can limit your unit’s performance and even cause damage to the unit. If your air conditioning unit has been uncovered all season, it will definitely need a cleaning before use.
Clear out any debris, leaves, or grass that has accumulated around the condenser on the outside of your unit. You can use a cloth or some canned air to clean out the coils. This will remove any pollen or mold that might have nestled inside over the winter. Afterward, you can open the unit and clean the inside of the box, as well.
Additional Steps to Prepare Your Air Conditioner for the Summer
Check the coolant lines
Refrigerant lines run from your AC unit’s evaporator coil to the condenser outside. These tubes or pipes are typically covered with a foam coolant line insulation, although there may be areas where it is frayed or missing. If that’s the case, replace it with new foam insulation sleeves or wrap them in a spiral fashion with foam insulation tape.
Install a programmable thermostat
If you do not already have one, you can gain substantial energy savings by installing a programmable thermostat. These allow you to reduce the use of air conditioning at times when you do not need it, like when you are out of the house at work or school.
Call on an HVAC technician
If you follow the above system, test your air conditioning system, and run into a problem, it’s time to call in a cooling specialist to investigate the matter. Whether it’s a faulty component or your air conditioning unit has simply reached the end of its service life, a certified technician can recommend repair or replacement options as necessary before issues get worse.
Contact Us for Professional HVAC Services
Whether you’ve got central air conditioning or window units, it’s always a good idea to ensure your system is ready for the hot days to come — or else, you could be looking at costly breakdowns and without cool air when you need it the most. Fortunately, our specialists know just what it takes to cool your home in the most effective way possible! From installation and ongoing maintenance to emergency repair services, we can ensure your air conditioning system is in tip-top shape.
For more information about our comprehensive heating and air conditioning services, get in touch with Cold 1 Services today!
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