Getting your AC Ready for Summer
Close to half the average home’s energy consumption comes from heating and cooling. For homeowners that plan to run the air conditioner in the summer, it is important to make sure that the unit is ready for the heavy workload.
By taking some time to prepare your AC for its summertime use, you can reduce the cost of running the unit, extend its operating life and you can prevent the possibility of the unit breaking down in the middle of the summer heat. Here are a few steps that you can take to make sure your air conditioner is ready for summer.
Change or Clean Filters
This is one of the most basic steps in air conditioner maintenance and it is also one of the most important. The filter protects you air conditioner from dirt, dust and debris that may enter the system. When it gets clogged, it inhibits the flow of air to the system and it can affect the quality of the air in the home. This reduces efficiency, increases wear on the components and it can impact its ability to provide cool air.
Any time your air conditioner is in regular use, the filters need to be checked at least once a month. When the filters get clogged, that means that they need to be replaced or cleaned. With most central air conditioning units, the filter can be found behind the panel on the blower unit.
Clean and Clear Area around Condenser
For a condenser to perform properly, it needs unobstructed airflow. Go out to the condenser and clear any brush or grass that may have grown around the unit. You should also remove any debris that has built up on or around the unit. A good rule of thumb is that you want provide the unit with at least two feet of unobstructed airflow.
Clean Condensation Line
Condensation builds up as warm air passes through the coil in your AC system. With most air conditioners, there is a drain line that removes the condensation from the system. However, this line can get clogged, and this could cause all sorts of problems for your air conditioner. Before the summer starts, you should locate the drain line for your air conditioner and make sure it is functioning properly. If not, you need to clear the line to make sure the system can drain properly.
Professional Inspection
You should get your air conditioner serviced before the start of the usage season. A professional HVAC technician will be able to inspect the lines, test for leaks and they will be able to provide a thorough cleaning for coils. Along with that, they can look for any parts that may need repairs. This can save you from the possibility of the unit breaking down in the middle of the summer.