3 Ways To Prepare Your AC For The Summer
When summer finally sets in, you don't want to have a malfunctioning air conditioner. Unfortunately, when your AC sits dormant for several months, it collects debris that may hamper its performance. So performing AC maintenance before the cooling season is important to ensure your unit is dependable.
Without a well-tuned AC, your unit can consume more energy than usual, which can inflate your energy bills significantly. Here are three ways to prepare your air conditioner for the summer season.
Clean the Filters
Your AC air filters trap pollen, dust, pet dander, and mold spores to ensure excellent indoor air quality. Sadly, the filters can clog over time and impede proper airflow. Consequently, the system begins to circulate dust in your home.
A clogged filter also forces your system to work extra hard to maintain indoor comfort levels, which increases your power bills. The additional strain could also lead to premature system failure.
To fix these issues, you should regularly change or clean your AC air filters every three months. This step helps kill germs and allergens that may interfere with indoor air quality and also improve system efficiency. Note that if you have multiple pets, people with allergies, or household members with respiratory ailments, you should change the air filters more often.
Clear Debris Around the Outdoor Unit
If you covered the outdoor unit during winter, take off the cover to allow the unit to breathe. The debris is minimal if you keep your unit covered. However, dirt, leaves, and yard debris would accumulate at the unit's base if the condenser unit wasn't covered.
This debris reduces your AC's performance and may damage your system. So clean the condenser unit to remove debris so your system runs optimally.
Also, check for debris buildup on the fins and condenser coils. Clean them using a small brush to allow your system to operate better and blow cleaner air. Don't forget to clear all the branches and vegetation near the unit to prevent debris from entering the condenser unit. This step also improves airflow in your unit.
Check Your Thermostat
Check your system thermostat to ensure it's functional. If your thermostat is battery-powered, install new batteries to ensure it operates smoothly. For superior performance, consider investing in a smart thermostat. A smart thermostat allows you to program temperature settings based on the weather conditions, daily schedules, and your heating or cooling needs.
For instance, you can configure your thermostat to come on as soon as you get home from work or stay off when you aren't home. This feature helps cut energy wastage, which translates to money in your pocket.
For complete peace of mind, enlist an HVAC technician to service your AC before the cooling season begins. This step will ensure your AC works at its best during the summer.
For more information, reach out to a local service, such as Brinker Heating & Cooling Services.