As soon as the temperature reaches the mid-20s and edges towards the 30-degree mark, it’s time to start thinking about your air conditioner. Follow these tips to get the most out of your unit this year to avoid facing a sudden loss of service on a scorching hot day.
Initial cleaning
Before you start up your air conditioner, you should give it a thorough inspection and cleaning. This includes washing away any debris from the coils and fins with water and around the outside of the machine. You should have at least two feet of distance between the AC unit and any trees or bushes. If you have less than the recommended clearance, cut and trim back any greenery to prevent debris from entering and damaging the machine. If you know where the evaporator coil and drain are located, clean these with hot water and soap to avoid clogs.
Inspection
Once it’s clean, it’s time to test the machine to make sure it turns on and blows out cool air throughout the home. But before you flick the switch, be sure to inspect the ductwork for any holes or loose fittings. Once this step has been cleared, you can turn on the machine and check each air vent in the home to see if it is working. If the air is not coming through or if it’s still warm, check the thermostat to see if the temperature is properly set and that the cooling mechanisms are turning on. Issues that are not related to the thermostat will require the assistance of an HVAC professional.
Professional Inspection
Do you remember when you last had your AC unit inspected by an HVAC technician? If it was longer than a year, it’s a good idea to schedule one. Skipping out on annual inspections could leave you stranded in a sweaty mess once the summer heat arrives and the unit refuses to operate properly. An unmaintained unit can also leave you with higher electricity bills or end up costing more to repair in the future.
Simple Summer Maintenance
We recommend checking the air filter a few times throughout the summer since it can clog up over time from dust and pet dander. If the filter looks blocked or if you notice a drop in the AC performance, replace the filter with a new one. It’s also important that you check the drain pipe that removes the moisture from the unit. A clogged line can create higher levels of humidity in the home, making it muggy and uncomfortable. If the line looks blocked, simply use a shop vac to suck out any debris. Then check the surrounding area for any greenery that may have grown around or close enough to the unit to cause those blockages.
If you notice any changes to the temperature that are not associated with the thermostat or any loud noises coming from the unit once you switch it on, it’s a sign that your machine needs a tune-up. Increased monthly utility bills can also be a common indication that there’s something wrong with your AC unit, and it’s time to have it looked at and repaired.
If your AC unit is old or if you experienced any issues with it in previous years, it’s worth scheduling an inspection and maintenance tune-up before the intense heat kicks in. There’s nothing worse than being left stranded in the summer without the reprieve of your cool AC. So don’t risk it. Instead, contact our team at Top Hat Home Comfort Services to take care of your unit so that you can enjoy a comfortable, stress-free summer.
