6 Tips for Preparing Your AC Units for the Summer Months
Summer is just around the corner, and you know what that means: hot days, sunny skies, and plenty of fun activities. But before you start planning your next barbecue or pool party, there’s one thing you need to take care of: your AC units.
Air conditioners are essential for keeping you and your family comfortable and cool during the summer to prevent things like heat stress (which you can click here to learn about if you’re interested). Still, they also need some care and maintenance to ensure they work well and smoothly.
In this blog post, we’ll share six tips on how to prepare your AC for the summer months so that you can enjoy the season without any worries or hassles.
1. Clean the Air Filters
When your air filters are clogged with dust and debris, your AC unit must work harder to cool your home. It not only makes your unit less efficient, but it can also lead to higher energy bills and more frequent breakdowns.
The Department of Energy recommends changing air filters regularly to reduce energy consumption. They claim a clean filter can save 5 to 15 percent of energy consumption. A lot of times cleaning companies will replace the air filters when they clean your home. Google “Atlanta house cleaners” to find maid services in the Atlanta area. You can then call the maid services to find out what is included in the cleaning.
2. Check and Clear the Condenser Unit
One of the most important steps to prepare your AC units for the summer is to inspect and clean the condenser unit. The condenser unit is the outdoor part of your AC system that releases the heat from your home. It needs to have enough space and airflow around it to work properly.
If the condenser is blocked by dirt, debris, leaves, or plants, it can overheat and damage your AC system. It can also reduce its efficiency and increase your energy bills.
3. Inspect and Clean the Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil is a vital part of your air conditioning system that absorbs heat from the air and cools it down. Over time, dust and dirt can build up on the coil and reduce its efficiency. Inspect and clean the evaporator coil at least once a year to keep your AC running smoothly.
4. Check the Refrigerant Level
One of the things you should do to maintain your energy storage system is to check the refrigerant level regularly. The refrigerant is a fluid that helps transfer heat from the battery to the outside. The battery might overheat and damage the system if the refrigerant level is too low.
To check the refrigerant level, you need to locate the sight glass on the side of the system and see if there are any bubbles or foam in it. If there is, add more refrigerant until the sight glass is clear.
5. Test the Thermostat
If you want to test the AC thermostat, you can try this simple method. First, turn off the power to the AC unit and remove the thermostat’s cover, then use a multimeter to check the wires’ resistance to the thermostat.
If the resistance is near zero, the thermostat functions as it should. On the other hand, extremely high resistance or infinite value can identify a broken thermostat.
6. Schedule Professional Maintenance
You should schedule professional AC maintenance at least once a year to keep your AC running smoothly and efficiently. Professional maintenance can help you avoid repairs that cost a lot of money, make your unit last longer, and save energy. Plus, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your AC is in good hands.
Signing up for an AC maintenance plan is one of the best ways to ensure regular maintenance. You can get priority service, discounts, and annual tune-up reminders with an AC maintenance plan.
The Benefits of a Well-Functioning AC Unit
Preparing your AC unit for summer is a simple way to beat the heat and enjoy the season. Here are a few good reasons why you should follow these tips on how to do it properly:
Saves Money
A well-maintained AC unit runs more efficiently and consumes less electricity than a neglected one. Cleaning filters, coils, and vents can improve your unit’s airflow and cooling capacity. You can also check for leaks or damages that might affect its performance.
Improves Air Quality and Comfort
A dirty or faulty AC unit can circulate dust, allergens, and bacteria in your home, leading to health problems such as allergies, asthma, or infections.
By keeping your AC unit clean and functional, you can ensure that it delivers fresh and cool air that makes you feel good. You can adjust the thermostat and fan settings to suit your preferences and avoid overcooling or overheating.
Extends Its Lifespan
AC units can last for years if maintained properly. Neglecting it can cause it to wear out faster and break down more frequently, leading to costly service calls or the need for a new AC unit. Taking care of your AC unit before summer arrives will extend its lifespan and allow you to enjoy its benefits for longer.
As you can see, preparing your AC unit for summer is a smart move that can save you money, improve your health and comfort, and prolong your AC unit’s life. So don’t wait any longer and prepare for the year’s hottest season with a well-functioning AC unit. You’ll be glad you did!
About the Author
Shelby Bartz is the new Content Editor of Precision Air & Plumbing, a full-service HVAC, plumbing and home performance contractor operating in Chandler, Arizona. Shelby is a devoted bookworm but when she isn’t reading, you’ll find her cruising around town with her beloved ginger husky, Maxxy.
