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Our air conditioners receive a lot of use, but when it comes to maintaining the equipment, it’s easy to forget about them until there is a problem. Hiring an expert HVAC technician every six months to perform a complete inspection and any needed maintenance to prolong the life of your unit and keeping it running in tip-top shape is always a great idea. Between scheduled visits from your technician, you should follow this ultimate checklist to keep your AC running smoothly.
Regular professional inspections are always recommended, but there are steps you can take to make sure your AC continues to run well throughout the year.
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” even applies to AC maintenance. Here are the steps to take now:
High-efficiency air (HEPA) filters will both prolong the life of your AC system and keep your air clean, which promotes the health of you and your family. Installing a new filter will keep out dust, dirt, debris, and other air pollutants from entering your HVAC system and your home’s air.
Experts recommend you replace your air filter every 90 days to keep your AC system running correctly, though it does depend on a few factors. If it is a vacation home with little use, the air filter can be changed during your regular professional inspection. If you have pets or mild allergies, replace the air filter every 60 days. If you or your family suffer from severe allergies or have more than one pet, it may be necessary to replace your filter monthly.
There should be at least a two-foot radius of space around your outside AC unit. This clearance guarantees the best airflow and keeps the mechanics of the unit clean. Keep plants and brush that grounds around the unit cut back. During storms, cover the top of the unit to decrease debris falling in. Never completely cover the unit, as it can cause moisture build-up.
Checking your AC monthly may seem like a pain, but it can end up saving you both time and money.
A well-insulated refrigerant line will keep the vapor inside around 20°F while using your unit. This line ensures the air in your home will remain cold. When the insulation has damage, the vapor will become warmer, as will the air that comes into your home. If you notice any damage, consult a professional at once.
Also called vents or grilles, registers cover the hole where the duct runs between the furnace and the room. It is essential to check them for debris every month. Take this time to dust the outside of the register for the best airflow. Also, keep them uncovered.
Even with a checkup every six months, you should perform an annual checklist to stay on top of any problem that may arise.
While the filter helps keep the evaporator coil clean, it will still collect dirt. As dust builds up, it will cause issues with the airflow and function as an insulator, which will decrease the coil’s heat absorption. To fix this issue, check the cleanliness of your evaporator coil every year and clean it, if necessary.
Between the sun and rain, AC units in Florida can become uneven, which can cause malfunctions. To make sure your unit is level, check the concrete for cracks or damage. Also, note if there is any sinking or tilting in the concrete. If this is the case, call a professional to make it level.
This simple checklist is excellent to follow between your biannual air conditioner maintenance checkup. If you are ready to make sure your air conditioner is summer-ready, call Art Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electric today at 1-800-475-1504.
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