When summer is in full swing, it means blistering temperatures for many of us. If you’re lucky enough to have air conditioning, you’ll need to make sure it’s in good condition. That way you can stay cool indoors, all summer long. In this article, we’ll provide some tips for maintaining your air conditioner so you can get the most from it.
Book A Regular Service
One of the best ways to keep your AC unit in good condition is to book a regular air conditioning service appointment with a technician. Ideally, it should be serviced at least twice a year: once in the spring and once in the fall.
During these appointments, the technician will inspect your AC unit, clean it as needed and identify any potential problems. The internet can help you find air conditioning contractors who can also help with AC repair or replacement, emergency AC services or ductless mini splits. Specialist websites often allow you to request free estimates online, and you can also view customer reviews to help you choose the best contractor.
Look After Your Air Filter And Check The Condensate Drain Line
Your air conditioner’s air filter is important for two reasons. First, it helps to protect your AC unit from dirt and debris that could clog up the inner workings. Second, a clean air filter results in better airflow and can therefore improve your AC’s efficiency. Aim to check and clean your air filter every month, or more often if you have pets or live in a dusty area.
Another important task is to keep an eye on the condensate drain line. This line drains away any moisture that your AC unit produces during the cooling process. If the line becomes blocked, it can cause water damage to your home or encourage the growth of mold and mildew. To clean the condensate drain line, simply pour a cup of bleach into it every few months and run the AC for a few minutes to flush it through.
Inspect Your Ductwork And Clean Your Condenser Coils
If you have leaks in your ductwork, it can cause your AC to work harder and reduce its efficiency. Inspect your ductwork regularly and seal any leaks that you find.
Your AC unit has condenser coils that need to be kept clean in order for the unit to work properly. You can clean the coils yourself with a brush and some cleaner, or you can hire a professional to do it.
Check Your Refrigerant Levels And Clear Away Debris
Over time, your AC will lose its charge and this can cause a number of problems. You should therefore check your refrigerant levels at least once a year, and if they’re low, you should have a professional assess them and recharge the system if necessary.
You should also clear away debris that could be blocking airflow to your AC. This includes things like leaves and branches from nearby trees, as well as any debris that may have accumulated on the unit itself. By keeping the area around your AC clean and clear, you’ll ensure that it can operate at peak efficiency.
Be Mindful Of Strange Sounds Or Smells
If you hear strange noises coming from your unit there may be something wrong with the compressor, fan motor, or other components. In some cases, the noises may even indicate that your unit is close to breaking down entirely. Needless to say, it’s important to locate the issue and to involve a professional if necessary.
If you smell something strange, it might be an indication that your AC is working overtime to compensate for a lack of Freon. This could be the result of a tiny hole or crack somewhere in the system that’s allowing Freon to escape. A technician will need to find and repair the leak before recharging your system.
Keep an Eye on Your Energy Bills
You may notice that your energy bills are gradually increasing, even when you haven’t made any significant changes to your usage patterns. If so, this could be an indication that your AC unit is losing efficiency.
In some cases, this can be resolved by having a technician come out and clean the unit’s coils. In other scenarios, it may be necessary to replace parts or the entire unit.
In summary, it’s wise to study the unit’s manual, perform monthly maintenance and book regular services. Respond quickly whenever there’s an issue, and in return, you’ll benefit from your AC unit for many years to come.
“Air conditioners are a necessity in the summertime, but if they are not maintained properly they can cause damage to the system. The maintenance tips given in the article are helpful to keep your AC working.
Taking professional help is required to replace the system if the maintenance is not helping. Thank you for sharing the article.”