With the warm weather getting closer, now is the best time to look at your home’s AC system. While there are some maintenance tasks that you can handle on your own, it is in your best interest to leave the bigger jobs to the professionals. Much like anything else in life, the best time to assess the condition of your air conditioner is before you need to turn it on.
After all, there is nothing quite as bad than having your AC system completely breakdown in the middle of summer. Some of the ways you can make sure that your system is ready can be found here.
Change the Air Filter
Dirty and clogged filters can make your AC system work harder than it has to. It may also result in it remaining on longer and cost more to run. Hopefully, you have been changing your air filters every two to four months, based on the amount of pet hair and dust present. Make sure to change the filter again right before you turn the AC system on for the season. This will make sure it is fresh and ready to go.
Crank up the System
Once you have replaced the old filter, turn the system on to see how it is cooling. If the AC doesn’t come on, check the fuses or circuit breakers. If it still doesn’t start or cool the way it should contact a professional.
Even if you think everything is in working order, it is still a good idea to call the professionals. Having an annual tune-up for your AC system can help to keep it running efficiently and extend its useful life. In most cases, seasonal maintenance will include cleaning and inspecting your system for any issues and servicing any of the parts that may need it.
Clean Around the Exterior Unit
While the interior unit is important, you can’t forget about the exterior unit. Take some time to rake or move away any accumulated leaves and debris and clear a space of at least two feet around the entire unit. Also, rinse off the unit and remove any dust or debris that have accumulated during the winter months.
Consider Installing a Programmable Thermostat
If you are looking for ways to reduce your energy costs this summer related to your AC system, then consider installing a programmable thermostat. You can set it to keep the temperature comfortable while you are home, and then change or go up while you are away. There are even options that allow you to change the temperature from your smartphone or tablet.
As you can see, there are quite a few steps you can take to make sure that your AC system is ready for warmer weather. Ensuring that it is working properly will also help to reduce the need for repairs down the road. Don’t forget it is best to call a professional for an inspection since this is the best way to ensure there are no underlying issues present.