As the warmer spring weather rolls back around, you’re likely thinking about planning your summer vacation. However, it’s important that you show your air conditioning system some much-needed love so that it’s ready to take on the upcoming summertime weather. If this is your first year doing cooling system maintenance, then you’ll want to follow the detailed guide below to ensure that you don’t miss anything.
Schedule Professional Maintenance Service
One of the most important tasks that you can complete is to schedule a professional maintenance service for your air conditioning system. This service will include things like changing your air filter, lubricating moving parts, checking electrical connections, and so much more.
Even more important, this professional service is typically required to keep the warranty on your cooling system active. Try to schedule your service early in the spring months so that you have time to repair any problems before you need to use it every day.
Order New Air Filters
Typically, the most common reason that you’ll experience low airflow when it comes to your cooling system is because of a dirty air filter. This filter needs to be replaced every two to three months, depending on how dirty it gets in your household. It’s a good rule of thumb to check your HVAC air filter every month to see if it needs to be replaced. You should have some spare filters on hand so that you can easily replace them when necessary.
Clean Your Outdoor Unit
You’ll want to clean up the area around your outdoor cooling unit. It’s very common for debris, like leaves, to get blown up against your outdoor unit. When this happens, it restricts the unit’s airflow and its overall ability to operate efficiently. Do yourself a favor and trim back any greenery that is within three feet of the unit. Consider installing a fence or similar barrier with a three-foot setback from the unit to stop the flow of debris.
Straighten Out Bent Fins
If you look at the metal housing of your outdoor AC unit, you’ll notice many metal slots that have fins on them. These are very delicate and can bend when they come into contact with even the slightest force. For your air conditioning system to work optimally, these fins need to be in their original position. You can use a flathead screwdriver or a specialized fin comb to straighten any bent fins back to their original position.
Switch Your Ceiling Fans
In the wintertime, your ceiling fans should be rotating in a clockwise direction to help recirculate the warm air. As the warmer weather comes through, it’s time to switch the direction of your ceiling fan rotation. They should be rotating in a counterclockwise direction throughout the summer months.
This will force air down onto you and your family while you’re relaxing at home. This simple breeze can make the room feel up to 10 degrees colder than it actually is. When your rooms feel colder than they actually are, you won’t need to set the thermostat as low. This means less runtime for your air conditioning system and, ultimately, lower energy bills for you.
Test Run
You should always test-run your cooling system before you need to rely on it to run constantly. Start by switching your thermostat back to cooling mode. Set the temperature around five degrees colder than it actually is in your home. As your cooling system kicks on, you’ll want to check all the supply vents throughout your home for adequate airflow. If you notice any obstructions, such as plants or furniture, that are blocking the airflow, it’s necessary to move those items out of the way.
Take Care of Your Ductwork
Your ductwork is a crucial component of your air conditioning system. If it has developed any leaks or gaps, it can let that precious cooled air seep out into your wall and floor cavities instead of into your rooms. Additionally, dirty ducting can restrict airflow and make your cooling system work harder. It’s a good idea to have your HVAC technician inspect your ducting to see if it needs to be cleaned or sealed up.
Call for Professional Service Today
Bash Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. offers top-quality air conditioner maintenance services for the entire Champaign, IL region. We can also assist with all your heating, cooling, indoor air quality, sheet metal fabrication, ductless mini-split, and heat pump needs. Simply call our friendly staff today to schedule your next maintenance appointment.
