Follow These Steps to Avoid Summer AC Disasters
With summer fast approaching, there’s more than enough on the spring to-do list to keep homeowners busy. Keeping the AC unit in tip-top condition should be at the top of that list. Regular AC maintenance helps an air conditioner run efficiently, keeping the house cool and the cooling cost. Most importantly, it keeps the unit from failing in the summer heat. These simple tips will help keep the AC unit cranking out the cool when things get hot.
A Dirty Air Filter Is Like A Stuffed Up Nose
Just as a person can’t breathe when their nose is stuffed up, an AC unit can’t function properly with a clogged air filter. With a dirty filter, dust and particles can enter the system causing moving parts to jam and restricting airflow. Replacing or cleaning the air filter in an AC unit is vital for air conditioner maintenance. The benefit of this simple step can save homeowners hundreds in more serious repairs down the road. Fortunately, it’s usually an easy enough task for a homeowner to manage independently.
Air filters should be replaced every three months, at a minimum. More frequent replacements can help maintain optimal performance and keep the cool air flowing with higher temperatures and increased usage.
Keep the Area Surrounding the AC Unit Clear
If a home has an AC unit, the homeowner’s outdoor spring cleanup to-do list should include clearing the area around it. Weeds, leaves, and grasses that have grown or piled up around the base should be cleared away, as should any trash, yard decorations, or other obstructions. Keeping a sufficient area around the air conditioning unit clear of debris is vital to maintaining proper airflow for optimal unit operation.
Schedule Maintenance With a Qualified Professional
An ounce of prevention can be the only thing between melting in the summer heat and keeping cool and comfortable. Regular air conditioner maintenance checkups from a qualified AC technician help an AC unit run more efficiently and last longer.
An experienced technician can help a homeowner avoid costly repairs during regular maintenance by maintaining a healthy system and catching small problems before they get big. Some things that get checked during regular maintenance include changing the air filter and refrigerant levels, inspecting ducts, electrical connections, and both the indoor evaporator and outdoor condenser coils, and clearing them of any debris or obstructions. They’ll also clean the blower motor and ensure the fan belt is in good shape. Before leaving, the technician should turn the system on and ensure everything is running correctly.
By following these simple tips, homeowners won’t get stuck with costly repairs for a faulty air conditioning unit and can be assured they’ll enjoy a continuously cool summer.
About Boutwell’s Air Masters
Boutwell’s Air Masters HVAC professionals have provided Pensacola and surrounding communities with first-class, fast, reliable solutions to all their heating and air conditioning needs for two generations. They use the latest technology for diagnostics and repairs, are a Rheem Top 20 Pro Partners, and are available today for all AC maintenance and repair needs in Pensacola, FL.
