Well, spring has finally arrived, and that just means winter has gone and gone, and warm weather is approaching. This is that time when you’re supposed to have a check on your air conditioner to avoid hazards of emergency ac service afterward. Now, let’s go over what you want to do in advance of using the cooling system.
First, consider exterior factors that influence optimal AC performance: The metal fins of a condenser unit can easily bend and block air flow. Fortunately these can be straightened with a fin comb. Clear debris from the unit, and keep two feet of space around the unit. The range lets your AC “breathe.” Think of jogging in a straitjacket-exactly. Where the filter is, home is where the heart is, taking in clean cool air. Replace the old with a new one every one to three months. Like flossing, small yet important tasks. Nobody also likes allergies from new dust in the air.
Now, for the thermostat: this controls how warm your home will get. If it is mediocre, perhaps it’s time for one of those new smart thermostats. Just think about adjusting the temperature while still in bed from your phone; great.
A system too noisy can present a number of problems better avoided: Chattering or squealing does not come from a ghost. Caused by loose or worn-out bearings, just hold them in their place by oil to avoid further problems.
Lower the shade on your AC’s coils: these elements cool the air; however, dirt makes them work ineffectively. Out of power they are to be cleaned annually to make sure they will serve well. Coils require just a delicate wash and some special cleaners in case of tough grime.
Check the fans, too: One with a dented or bent blade reduces airflow. Take it out and straighten or replace it for best results.
Want to know about drains? Of course, the most important one when it comes to blockage prevention is the condensation drain. A quick sweep sends water out so as not to put your basement into some sort of lagoon-like shape. Nobody likes unexpected wading.
That is the perfect time when one needs to get professionals involved. After all, sometimes DIY isn’t sufficient, and a person needs experts with tools. Regular maintenance will spare one the surprises that might come in July when the AC fails. Unless one is into sauna days; in that case, this is advice to ignore.
Ducts are always ignored: A leaking ductwork is cooling your attic or garage and not the living room. The leaks should be sealed either by mastic sealant or by using metal tape. It is simply not to let your pay-cheque be blown away in the winds.
Insulate refrigerant lines: Missing or damaged insulation lowers the cooling efficiency. Wrap them up like scarves now, so that in spring, the coolant lines will be efficient.
Now, compare the result after readjustment of the parts. How about air circulation? Easier or still not enough? Remember, routine maintenance can keep discomfort at bay. A little spring care helps your air conditioner function effectively this summer. Give yourself the dividend gained from comfort insulation. The next time he or she feels cool at home, then will surely remind him/her of those spring preparations which keep him comfortable.
AC Fall Maintenance
With the crunch of leaves underfoot and the cooler air, you will hardly think of such niceties as air conditioning then; all too soon, you will ache for those cooling breezes.
The ultimate fail: needing emergency AC service during a heat wave. Smart fall maintenance gets your AC ready to take on the heat next year.
That’s where your filter needs maintenance. With one player taking care of his instrument, a clean filter allows everything to move just the way it should. A clean filter will give your AC fresh air, just as a filter full of dust inside will make your AC go out of order in no time.
It is said that “The devil is in the details,” especially with ductwork. These things, when attended to, save minute details from turning into huge catastrophes. For one does not know what is there – dust, spider webs, and so on. If these ducts could talk they would probably say they wanted cleaning or repairing.
Funny noises or odors? It’s probably not a ghost, just your AC. Have a closer look, but, more importantly, listen while it is on. If in doubt, call in the pros before it gets worse. Just as you don a warm sweater when it starts getting nippy outside, outdoor AC units love being wrapped up too. A waterproof cover shields them against bad weather much as a robust cabin roof shelters its occupants from wind, rain, and snow. Note: Airflow is king, and locking in moisture may dampen your unit.
Song says, “For everything there is a season.” So do your AC’s thermostats and controls. Many devices can fail when needed most. Prepare them with a simple test and replace if necessary. A small effort now prevents discomfort later. Check your wiring and connectors. These are probably the most important, and most neglected, part of most systems. Bad connectors account for lots of wasted problems, time, and money. A clean, tightly fitted connection is like a firm hand-shake-a reassuring promising one.
Your AC coils should be cleaned every now and then, pretty much like your coffee machine. Clean coils incur no performance penalty, whereas running a marathon in lead boots is not very different. Clean them, and your system will be running smoothly-cooler than a cucumber in gin. Well, check your refrigerants; they are, after all, sort of vital to your AC. Low levels generally indicate a leak somewhere. Operating your air conditioner on low refrigerant is a lot like heading into the wilderness armed with half a canteen of water: not too bright. Refilling it-via a competent technician, of course-is the wise thing to do.
Remember, your annual AC check-up is how the unit will last. Call in experts in HVAC to check up on the whole system. You don’t want it to be non-functional when heat bounces back. Like humans love to sleep under the stars, ACs too need their share of rest. Let them take some time off during the cooler months so that they strengthen themselves for the coming summer.
Here is the perfect guide on how to maintain your air conditioner, keeping it fit and healthy to face oncoming heat waves. You wouldn’t be bothered at all while enjoying cool air, relaxed, and ready!