The season for air conditioners hasn't begun in earnest just yet, but there's no time like the present to prepare your A/C system. A little preparation can go a long way not just for your A/C system's overall health, but also for your household budget and overall peace of mind. Here are a few things you can do to get your A/C system ready for the warm weather ahead.
Do Some Spring Cleaning
The first thing you should do is make sure your A/C system is clean enough to operate safely and efficiently. Running a dirty A/C system spreads dust, allergens and even mold throughout your home, potentially harming household members who suffer from allergies or asthma.
If you don't know where to start, here are a few things you can do to give your A/C system a clean slate:
Check and change the air filters. Dirty air filters can severely impact your A/C system's performance. Replace the old filter with a brand-new one before starting up your A/C system.
Vacuum the vents and grilles. Your supply vents and return air intake grilles may also have dust all over them. Use your vacuum's brush attachment to remove as much dust and debris as possible.
Inspect and clean the outdoor unit. If you own a split-system air conditioner, then it will have an outdoor cabinet that also needs cleaning. Open up the cabinet and remove any debris found inside.
Clean the outdoor coil. The outdoor cabinet also houses the condenser coil. Using an ordinary garden hose, rinse any accumulated dirt and debris off the coil.
Let a Pro Take a Good Look
While there's plenty about your A/C system you can tackle on your own, some tasks are better left to the professionals. These tasks include checking your A/C system's refrigerant levels as well as a comprehensive checkup of the compressor and refrigerant lines.
A trained A/C technician can also spot potential problems with your heating and cooling equipment before they turn expensive and time-consuming to deal with. You'll also gain peace of mind knowing that your A/C system is in the best possible shape.
Think About Upgrades
Believe it or not, there's plenty you can do to make your A/C system even better at its mission. One of the easiest upgrades you can invest in is a new programmable thermostat, especially if your A/C system still uses an older, traditional model. Programmable thermostats feature a wider variety of settings that allow for efficient cooling, which can help you save money on your utility bills over the long-term.
Take It On a Test Run
Before you start using your A/C system on a regular basis, make sure to test it first. A quick test run can help reveal any potential issues that need addressing before you run your A/C system regularly.
For more information, contact local air conditioning maintenance services.
Share
