Prepare Your AC Unit for Summer
Today is the second day of summer! It is also a good time for you to prepare yourself before the heat and humidity hit Connecticut hard. You need to ensure that all systems and devices in your home are good to go. The air conditioning (AC) unit is one of the most important devices for summer.
You need to prepare your AC unit, so you can ensure cool and comfortable temperatures for you and your family throughout the coming months. There are some important things that you need to check. Here are some step by step instructions for those who want to do preventive maintenance procedures for your AC unit.
Look at the Thermostat
This is the most important, outer facing part of your AC unit. When this device is broken, your AC unit cannot work efficiently. You cannot reach the right ideal temperature in any room in your home. The thermostat should be properly attached and is working effectively.
If you have some problems with this device, you need to call professional technicians, so they can replace your thermostat connecting your AC unit. A good thermostat can detect the right temperature for the air inside your home and offer features like away mode or night mode for optimal efficiency.
Clean all Air Filters in your AC Unit
Air filters can accumulate a lot of dust when they are not cleaned regularly. It is recommended for you to clean your air filters at least once every 3 – 4 months. If your air filters are clogged with dust, the airflow will be slowed down or restricted.
As a result, dirty air filters can reduce the efficiency of the system. In the worst case, your AC unit will recirculate dust around your room. It can be unhealthy for you and your family. You may also want to consider replacing your air filters if these filters are broken.
Check the Condenser Coils
Good AC units usually have functional condenser coils. These coils are usually located outdoors. They are protected by a large metal box with grilles. You need to clean these condenser coils before summer. They may accumulate debris, dirt, leaves, and any other unwanted materials.
You have to remove them completely, so you can make your AC unit function well. Anything that obstructs the airflow on the condenser coils can reduce the overall efficiency rate of your AC unit. Make sure that you turn off the unit before you start cleaning your condenser coils.
Check the Coolant Lines or Pipes
When you look at the outdoor units of your AC, you are going to find some coolant lines or pipes. These lines usually run from the evaporator to the condenser units. They are commonly covered with coolant line insulation foam, so they won't lose energy. When you see any areas where the insulation is missing, you need to replace the insulation foam immediately.
You can replace it with new foam insulation sleeves. Don't forget to use foam insulation tape for attaching these sleeves on your pipes. Make sure that all pipes or lines are insulated completely, so you won't lose energy to the environment.
Inspect the Motor and Fan
Both motor and fan are very useful to ensure the functionality of your AC unit. Therefore, you need to ensure that both devices can work properly. Professional technicians are ready to check all parts of your motor and fan inside your AC units.
In some cases, you also need to lubricate your motor, so your motor can function well for supporting your AC units. The speed of the AC fan should be checked regularly. The fan should never run too hard because this condition can cause overheated AC problems.
Those are some of the most common steps for preparing your AC unit for the summer. You need to check all steps above, so you can have a well-functioned AC unit in your home during the summer season. If you don't want to deal with any problems with your AC units, you can also consider hiring the best AC repair technicians from Highwood Mechanical Contractors, Inc. Our company has years of experience in solving your HVAC needs in your home or office.