Stepping into a new season is a good excuse to check on your air conditioning system. Making sure your AC is up and running is the best way to keep your home comfortable while the heat is melting everything on the streets. And in case you need a fix, you can find a suitable team in your local area, searching inquiries like AC repair in Sacramento, for example.
With a little time for a few simple steps, air conditioning repairs can help you have the cooling comfort that you deserve all year round. However, good maintenance can save you from overpaying for expensive repairs. In this guide, we look at the importance of seasonal AC maintenance and what one can do at home.
The Importance of Seasonal AC Maintenance
Maintenance of the AC system is quite similar to car maintenance: regular visits for minor repairs can help you avoid major issues in the future. Most HVACs, for example, last up to 20 years with proper care. Unfortunately, many homeowners overlook and neglect it, which eventually can lead to inefficient cooling, higher electricity costs, and unexpected breakdowns in the peak summer months.
Regular maintenance will ensure your AC unit works efficiently. It’s a good way to spare the unit any excessive work and load from the system itself. That not only means a better living condition but also translates to great savings. Not to mention, a well-maintained AC unit will last longer, meaning you will have to do much less to replace it.
Benefits of Regular AC Maintenance
There are many benefits that regular AC checkups can offer. Here are the key points:
- Improves efficiency. Routine maintenance helps to keep your AC system efficient to the maximum. Dirt-free filters, coils, and other parts are key points for an AC to keep your home cool.
- Lower utilities. An efficient AC unit consumes less energy. So you pay less in utility bills when it works properly. Small adjustments and cleanings can lead to a massive reduction in your energy use.
- Better air quality. A clean AC system filters dust, allergens, and air pollutants—an added bonus when it comes to internal air quality. If you have allergies or respiratory problems, it’s a must-have.
- Longer lifespan. Small problems can be dealt with less painfully if you find them during maintenance. A quick routine AC repair will extend the life of your unit—and help you save costs on major replacements.
When properly cared for, your AC will be able to maintain a constant cooling condition. This means every corner of your home will remain in a comfortable temperature with no unpleasant surprises.
Seasonal AC Maintenance Checklist
The majority of homes in the US have an AC nowadays. So what to do to keep that unit in the best condition possible? Follow these steps and enjoy a cool, comfortable home all year through.
Check and Replace Air Filters
This is probably the easiest yet most effective maintenance task you can do: checking and changing the air filters in your air conditioning unit. A dirty or clogged filter can significantly affect the airflow, and not in a good way.
What to do:
- Filters should be checked every month and changed every 1-3 months depending on use and type.
- Consider getting a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. It might cost more, but it will also enhance the air quality.
Clean the Coils
Dirt that forms over some time may clog both the evaporator and condensing coils. This, of course, will make them lose the ability to absorb and release heat effectively.
What to do:
- Clean the evaporator coil at least once a year to remove dust and dirt.
- Maintain the condenser coil, which is the outdoor coil, clean of dirt and foliage. Dust can be safely removed using a soft brush or coil cleaner.
Check the Thermostat Settings
Ensure the thermostat is working properly and is set to a comfortable temperature.
What to do:
- Check the thermostat settings regularly. Don’t fiddle with it unnecessarily.
- You can use a programmable thermostat to control temperature based on your activity pattern.
Check the Condensate Drain
If the condensate drain lines clog, it could cause damage with water leakage. Not to mention it leads to elevated humidity within the home.
What to do:
- Inspect the drain. Clear out all the blocked channels, using a stiff wire or vacuum.
- Ensure that the drain is positioned to direct water away from the foundation of your home.
Electrical Connection
Every loose electrical connection can lead to operational problems, as well as be a potential danger to your safety.
What to do:
- You can check for wear and tear on electrical connections such as capacitors and contractors.
- Replace any loose parts and electrical wires that are worn or have tear marks.
Lubricate Moving Parts
This ensures that friction is minimized and doesn’t wear and tear off moving parts.
What to do:
- Lubricate the motor every year to prevent unnecessary strain on the system.
Checking the Level of Refrigerant
An improper level of refrigerant imbalances your AC’s working and cooling capacity.
What to do:
- Contact professional technicians like Alpha Mechanicals to check the level of refrigerant. They will help you refill it as required.
- Be wary of any leaks of refrigerant—hissing sound or ice accumulation on the coils.
Check the Ductwork
Leaky or dirty ducts can reduce efficiency and air quality in the home.
What to do:
- Check exposed ducts for visible leaks or damage, and seal off any breaches with duct tape or mastic sealant.
- Think about having ductwork professionally cleaned every few years, since it can easily get littered with dust and debris.
Of course, when everything else fails, it’s time to call for help. Thankfully, companies like Alpha Mechanicals are always on ready to repair your AC quickly and efficiently.
Conclusion
Regular maintenance works wonders to keep your system working efficiently, your energy bills down, and your house comfortable. Follow this seasonal AC maintenance checklist, you will be able to manage the minor issues before they get out of control.
So don’t wait until the peak of summer heat—begin your seasonal maintenance today! In this way, you will be able to enjoy the rewards of proper system maintenance with peace of mind. And if your AC will break, after all, it’s better to rely on experts.
