Your home’s cooling system is critical for your household’s summertime comfort. Without regular tune-ups, it can break down and leave you scrambling to stay cool. Let’s explore the ultimate air conditioner maintenance guide for homeowners.
Change or Clean the Filters
Clean filters go a long way in helping your cooling system to function better. Clogged filters prevent it from blowing out and circulating cold air throughout your home.
Change or clean your air conditioner’s filter every two to three months. If you have cats or dogs living inside your house, you may need to change or clean the filter every one to two months.
Clean the Outdoor Unit
Before summer gets under way, inspect the outdoor condenser unit. Sweep off debris like grass clippings and spider webs.
Use your garden hose to spray off embedded dirt and dust. Clear the area around the outdoor unit. Avoid placing items like lawn furniture, bicycles and lawn care equipment on or within 2 feet of it.
Inspect and Clean the Condensate Drain
The condensate drain ensures condensation can drain normally out of the cooling system. Over time, however, debris like dirt, dust and algae can clog it.
Check it regularly for clogs. Use a distilled white vinegar or bleach solution to flush out debris inside it. Professional HVAC maintenance typically includes inspecting and cleaning the condensate drain.
Inspect the Ductwork
Before you turn on the AC for the season, check its ductwork. High winds and ice during the winter can tear holes and loosen it.
The openings then let in moisture and heat that prevent your air conditioner from cooling your home. Use mastic tape to seal openings and reattach loose or damaged ductwork.
Test the Thermostat
Before summer arrives, ensure the thermostat works properly. Set it to a temperature that is lower than the air temperature in your home.
The AC should start within a few minutes of adjusting the thermostat. If it does not, or the thermostat fails to reach the set temperature, hire our team to recalibrate, repair or replace the thermostat.
Lubricate Moving Parts
The moving parts in the cooling system’s motor need lubrication to work. Without it, they grind against each other, generating heat and friction and creating loud noises like screeching and squealing. Our technicians will inspect and lubricate these moving parts as part of your system’s yearly tune-up.
Check for Refrigerant Leaks
When the refrigerant runs low, it prevents your air conditioner from cooling the air. Instead, the air coming from the vents may feel tepid or warm. You may also notice a chemical-like or sweet odor in your home’s air. Hire one of our technicians to inspect and refill the refrigerant before summer.
Clean the Coils
Inspect and clean the condenser and evaporator coils. Dirt and grime on them increase the risk of the AC freezing up and failing to work. Use a brush or soft cloth to wipe debris off the coils at least twice a year.
These tips help you properly maintain the air conditioner in your home in Arlington Heights, IL. Contact Paragon Mechanical for AC maintenance.
