Few household chores pay off as much as air conditioning maintenance. Not only is this a great way to keep your AC unit working at an optimal level, but it can also help reduce emergency breakdowns and help you save money on your energy bills.
Proper maintenance and routinely scheduled inspections will help your AC unit run more efficiently. A person who schedules regular air conditioning maintenance will likely have a unit that lasts longer than someone who does not. In the end, that could save you money.
The Importance Of Air Conditioning Maintenance
While some of the tasks can be done by you, the homeowner, there are many that should be left to a professional with proper training and certification. If there is ever a time where the job is too big, or you’re left scratching your head trying to figure out how to complete a certain task, call a professional.
Pro Tip #1 – Cleaning & Replacing the Air Filter
If you have a reusable filter, cleaning it is an important step to air conditioning maintenance. If your AC unit has a disposable filter, it’s important that you regularly replace it. Replace your filter at least once a month during the seasons when you use your AC the most. Replace it again, at least once in the fall and again in the spring.
The filter should be located in these places:
A slot in the top, side, or bottom of the furnace
Inside the blow compartment
Behind the air grille
In the return air duct or blower compartment
If you’re having trouble finding it, ask your service technician during your next scheduled maintenance appointment.
Pro Tip #2 – Clean the Unit
Imagine all of the extreme conditions your outside unit faces each year: from dust storms and rain during the monsoon season, to nearly freezing temperatures overnight in the winter, plus any leaves or debris that fall into the unit. Just like you prepare your grill after it sits for a season, you also need to maintain and prepare your AC unit before you use it.
Removing things like grass, dirt, and leaves will increase air flow and system capacity, so it runs properly.
After shutting off the power for the unit, a garden hose can be used to spray out any debris. Do NOT use a power washer. These can bend the coils and will cause major issues.
Cut back any plants, trees, or shrubs that are close to the AC unit.
Pro Tip #3 – Check Wiring and Modules
Without experience, inspecting an AC unit can feel overwhelming or even dangerous. If you aren’t sure what to look for or think something looks wrong, call to schedule an appointment to have a professional check it out. If your current service technician isn’t doing these things, then it’s time to call the professionals at Forrest Anderson:
Check unit for signs of overheating.
Inspect the contactor switch.
Secure all electrical connections.
Pro Tip #4 – Check the Unit’s Condenser
If you have an older AC unit, sometimes the fan bearings will need to be re-oiled to keep it working properly. Making adjustments to the unit’s condenser can cause damage if done incorrectly. Make sure your current service technician can:
Check that the fan is securely mounted to the top of the unit.
Replace any broken blades.
Replace any fan blades with cracks or chips.
Pro Tip #5 – Call a Professional
You may be able to give a quick inspection yourself. However, in many cases, you’re going to need help. A trusted air conditioning maintenance company can help keep your AC unit working. They can also perform maintenance tasks on a regular basis to help the unit last as long as possible.
Only an experienced technician can perform maintenance quickly and in accordance with all standards. Schedule an appointment with one of our specialists, contact Forrest Anderson today.
Contact Forrest Anderson Today!