The efficiency of your air conditioning system, from the thermostat to the condenser coils and the energy consumption levels of your boiler system, furnace, and ducts are key determinants of your home energy bills. An often overlooked component of air conditioners is the condenser unit; a vital part that transforms heat into cool air. This piece can be compromised by accumulation of leaves, dirt, and other debris, affecting the way your cooling system performs. It is a step that people often miss, but addressing such problems can significantly improve performance. Test the temperature settings and airflow and replace old parts if needed, such as a compromised evaporator or air filter. The state of these components is vital for the efficiency of your system, just like the bit of vacuuming outside can boost the performance of your air conditioning unit. You can decrease your energy bills by about 25% if you take the energy to brush off the dirt in areas like your condenser and air handler, keep the coils and vents free from dust or debris, and maintain the power balance by servicing the refrigerant levels. Alternatively, you can instantly increase your runtimes and energy costs if your system’s fins and other systems are not on a regular HVAC maintenance plan which includes checking the condensation drain and condensate collections.
Getting your AC ready for summer would basically entail proactive system maintenance, regular maintenance and a comfortable and healthier system environment for a properly functioning AC system. Inspecting and cleaning the ducts, replacing the thermostat if it’s not registering the correct temperature, and ensuring the condenser and evaporator are free of leaves, dirt and other debris are all part of this process. The inside of the system is just as important as the outside, and missing even one bit can lead to problems down the line.
Top 3 Steps to Getting Your AC Ready for Summer
1. Clean Ductwork Indoors
Hire a professional to clean your ductwork, which is usually hidden either within walls or ceilings. Something as simple as using a professional-grade brush to remove the duct registers will enable you to inspect the ductwork, and wipe all components clean and dry. Additionally, peek inside to inspect its various parts for any water damage or wear, and be sure to address any signs of condensation that could indicate a problem.
Accumulation of moisture in the duct can damage the system by harboring the growth of fungus and mold. Some problems can be more serious than others, and such is the case when it can affect the fins and other sensitive parts of your air conditioners. Call a professional immediately to fix any water damage spotted on your AC unit. Ensure that the drain pipes are clean, and the condensate is properly collected and discarded. Since your unit can malfunction due to various reasons, including compromise in power supply, let a professional work on it.
2. Inspect Outdoor Unit Fan Belts for Faults and Conduct Regular Maintenance
Inspect your outdoor condenser unit and air handler fan belts regularly to determine if they need any replacement or adjustment. This includes checking on the condenser and coils for any accumulation of dust or debris that may hinder the efficient flow of heat and cool air. You can purchase parts compatible with your system in local home improvement or hardware stores. These parts can help lower your energy bills because they optimize your air conditioning system to perform efficiently.
Schedule your inspections to take place at regular intervals. It could be after every two or three months, and in this case, just before summer. During these checks, make sure to test the thermostat for correct temperature readings and ensure optimal airflow through the vents.Your air conditioning system, over time, needs regular inspection, tune-up, and maintenance. Homeowners can depend on a licensed hvac contractor who understands how to handle the various panels and pieces of the system. Your system, including its fins, can be easily fixed, unclogged or even upgraded with the right know-how and tools that are necessary to get the job done. This includes replacing faulty components such as air filters, thermostats, or coils, and testing for proper refrigerant flow. This helps ensure that allergens are kept in check as well as issues being identified and fixed early before it’s too late, in addition to efficiently running the HVAC system.
3. Run Scheduled Professional Pre-Season Tune-Up
With careful attention paid to insulation, the regular tune-ups can be done under the skilled hand of an hvac professional. They can be carried out every season as minimal investments aimed at prolonging your system’s life with regular performance. This includes cleaning the coils, checking the condensate drain, and maintaining the correct refrigerant level.
In summer, the months are very hot, hence the necessity of keeping your home cool and in line with comfort expectations. In addition to the three tips discussed above, you can also keep the outdoor condenser unit clean by regularly changing or cleaning the air filter every month to unclog it for optimal operation, ensuring the vents are free from dust and debris, and maintaining the correct temperature with a well-functioning thermostat.
Other Things You Can Do
It is also important to know your air conditioning system, how it works, and its various parts. Understand how to switch components if necessary or troubleshoot common issues. This encompasses everything from understanding the role of refrigerant in cooling your home, the job your thermostat does in regulating temperature, and the importance of regular inspections and tests to ensure optimal airflow and performance under differing pressure conditions. This will ease regular maintenance and facilitate issue communication between you and the professionals who will be ensuring that your unit works properly.
Call The Cooling Company today to help with your needs for getting your ac ready for summer: (702) 567-0707.
