The cool weather season is the perfect time for you to prioritize preparing your air conditioner for the summer. When it comes to ensuring that your air conditioner is running as efficiently as possible, there are a few things that you should put on the pre-season maintenance list. Here are some of the things that you need to think about.
Make Sure Your Thermostat Is Working
The thermostat is one of the most common culprits when your air conditioning system is running inefficiently. You should always test your thermostat to be sure that it is engaging and disengaging your cooling system the way that it should according to the settings. You can even have the thermostat tested by your HVAC service technician if you are uncertain about how it's functioning.
Seal Your Air Ducts
The air ducts are another common source of efficiency loss. When your air ducts are leaking due to cracks or poor seals, you lose cool air. This can be costly over time because it makes your air conditioner work harder to reach the programmed temperature inside your home. The more air you're losing through your ducts, the worse the efficiency of your air conditioner will be. Take time to inspect all of your air ducts, seal any damage, and ensure that all of the joints are properly connected.
Clear The Drain Line
The condensate drain line can become clogged due to all sorts of issues. Whether it's debris or mineral buildup or even insects making a home in the line, you need to be sure that the drain line is clear before you start your air conditioner for the summer. You can flush the line out with some high-pressure water or have your HVAC technician clear it as part of pre-season maintenance.
Change Your Filters
The air filters in your HVAC system keep the incoming air clear of particles and debris that can damage the unit. When the filters get clogged with dirt and particles, they hinder the airflow throughout the system. This can lead to frozen evaporator coils and can cause your system to run inefficiently or fail entirely. Make sure you start the season with new, clean filters and change or clean them on a regular basis while the system is running. This ensures adequate clean air for the air conditioner to function properly.
Clean The Compressor Unit
Your air conditioning compressor unit is the large unit that sits outside your home. It should be free of any obstructions, debris, and other issues at all times to ensure proper airflow around the unit. Take time to clear out any leaves, sticks, or waste material that's been piled up around it during the off-season so that your air conditioning system can run at its best.
