Summer is in full swing, and that means your air conditioner is running all the time. Servicing your air conditioner regularly can extend its lifespan, improve its performance, and ensure that it operates efficiently, keeping your home cool and comfortable during those scorching days.
Here are eight crucial things to consider when servicing your air conditioner.
What to Consider When Servicing Your Air Conditioner
1. Change the air filter: When servicing your air conditioner, the air filter in your AC unit plays a vital role in maintaining good air quality in your home. Over time, it can get clogged with dust, pollen, and other pollutants, hindering the airflow. To ensure optimal performance, it’s important to change the air filter regularly, preferably every 30-60 days.
2. Clean the condenser unit: The condenser unit, typically located outside your home, collects dirt, debris, leaves, and other outdoor pollutants. These can obstruct the airflow and affect the AC’s efficiency.
Clean the condenser unit by removing any debris and using a hose to wash away dirt from the fins. When servicing your air conditioner, be careful not to bend the fins as they are delicate.
3. Check the refrigerant levels: The refrigerant is responsible for absorbing heat from your home’s indoor air. If the refrigerant levels are low, your AC won’t be able to cool your home effectively. It’s crucial to have a professional technician check and replenish the refrigerant as needed to ensure optimal performance.
4. Inspect electrical connections: Over time, electrical connections can loosen or corrode, potentially causing safety hazards or a malfunctioning AC unit. Inspect all electrical connections, tighten any loose connections, and clean any corroded ones. If you’re unsure, consult a professional technician to handle this task.
5. Clean the evaporator coil: The evaporator coil is responsible for absorbing heat from the air inside your home. Over time, it can accumulate dust and dirt, reducing its efficiency. Clean the coil using a soft brush and a coil cleaner solution available at most hardware stores. Be cautious and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Lubricate moving parts: Many AC units have moving parts that may require lubrication to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation. Consult your unit’s manual to identify the specific parts that need lubrication and use a silicone-based lubricant for this task.
7. Check thermostat settings: Ensure that your thermostat is correctly calibrated and set to the desired temperature. Consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat if you haven’t already. Programmed settings can help optimize energy usage and save on cooling costs.
8. Schedule professional maintenance: While regular DIY maintenance is essential, it’s equally important to schedule professional maintenance for your air conditioner. A qualified technician can perform a comprehensive inspection, identify potential issues, and provide the necessary repairs or tune-ups to keep your AC running at its best.
Regular servicing and maintenance of your air conditioner are crucial for its longevity and optimal performance, ensuring a cool and comfortable home during the sweltering summer months.
By following these eight considerations, you can ensure that your AC unit operates efficiently, saving you money on energy bills and preventing expensive breakdowns. Stay cool and have a fantastic summer!
Thinking about getting the best performance out of your air conditioner or thinking about servicing your air conditioner? Set up a service call and let us take the worry away.
