AC Maintenance Tips to Get Your AC Ready for Summer
Are you a new homeowner?
No matter if your current home is your first or your fifth, it’s important to make sure it’s prepared for every season of the year. This is especially true during the cold months of wintertime or the heat of the summer months.
Summer is just around the corner, and it’s time to start thinking about getting your air conditioning unit ready for the season. Proper maintenance is essential to ensure that your AC runs efficiently and effectively throughout the summer months.
Here we look at some essential AC maintenance tips to get your AC ready for summer. Keep reading to learn more.
Clean or Replace Air Filters
One of the most critical AC maintenance tasks is to clean or replace the air filters. Air filters help to trap dust, pollen, and other particles, keeping the air in your home clean and healthy.
Over time, these filters can become clogged, reducing their effectiveness and causing your AC unit to work harder to cool your home. This can lead to higher energy bills and a shorter lifespan for your AC unit.
To prevent this, you should clean or replace your air filters regularly. Most filters should be replaced every 1-3 months, depending on how often you use your AC unit and the air quality in your home. You can clean AC filters by vacuuming them or washing them with soap and water.
Best of all, HVAC air filters are inexpensive and easy to replace.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is the control center for your AC unit, and it’s essential to make sure it’s working correctly. You should check the thermostat settings to ensure that they’re set to the temperature you want.
If you have a programmable thermostat, you should also check the programming to make sure it’s set correctly.
If you notice that the temperature in your home is not matching the thermostat setting, it could be a sign that the thermostat is not working correctly. You may need to recalibrate the thermostat or replace it if it’s damaged.
You can buy a good programmable thermostat at any local hardware store. This will help keep your home comfortable and reduce monthly energy costs.
Clean the Outdoor Unit
The outdoor unit of your AC unit is exposed to the elements and can become dirty and clogged with debris over time. This can reduce the efficiency of your AC unit and make it work harder to cool your home.
To clean the outdoor unit, turn off the power to the unit and use a garden hose to spray off any dirt or debris. You can also use a soft-bristled brush to remove any stubborn dirt or debris. Be careful not to damage the fins on the unit, as this can reduce its effectiveness.
Check the Refrigerant Levels
The refrigerant in your AC unit is what cools the air in your home. If the refrigerant levels are too low, your AC unit will not be able to cool your home effectively, and it could cause damage to the unit.
To check for AC leakages, you’ll need to hire a professional AC technician. They can use specialized equipment to check the levels and add more refrigerant if necessary.
It’s essential to have this done before the summer season starts to ensure that your AC unit is running at peak performance.
Inspect the Ductwork
The ductwork in your home is what delivers cool air from your AC unit to your rooms. Over time, the ductwork can become dirty, clogged, or damaged, which can reduce the effectiveness of your AC unit and cause it to work harder.
You should inspect your ductwork for any signs of damage or wear and tear, such as leaks or cracks. You can also have your ductwork cleaned by a professional to remove any dirt or debris that may be clogging the system.
Lubricate Moving Parts
The moving parts in your AC unit need to be lubricated regularly to prevent friction and wear and tear. This can include the motor, fan blades, and other components.
You can lubricate these parts by using a few drops of oil on each of the moving parts. Be sure to use a lubricant that’s specifically designed for AC units.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your AC unit running smoothly throughout the summer months. It’s recommended that you schedule a professional maintenance appointment at least once a year.
During this appointment, a professional technician will inspect your AC unit, clean the system, check the refrigerant levels, and make any necessary repairs.
Regular maintenance can help to prevent costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your AC unit. It can also ensure that your unit is running at peak efficiency, reducing your energy bills and improving the air quality in your home.
Here’s a great resource that can repair your AC before summer arrives.
A Homeowner’s Guide to AC Maintenance for Summer
Getting your AC unit ready for the summer season is essential for staying cool and comfortable during the hot months. By following these AC maintenance tips, you can ensure that your AC unit is running smoothly and effectively.
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