HVAC maintenance in 6 Easy Steps
Get your central air conditioner in gear before flipping the “on” switch, or you could be facing a hefty repair bill. Before you need an HVAC repair in Greenwood, follow a few simple DIY tips, and don’t hesitate to call an expert for assistance.
You can perform simple cleaning and preventative steps to keep your unit running efficiently. As a result, you may save yourself thousands of dollars in troubleshooting and AC repair services.
1. Safety First
Shut off power to the condenser before starting any HVAC maintenance in Greenwood. Typically found within arm’s reach of the condenser, the outdoor weatherproof 240-volt disconnect box should always be flipped to the “Off” position anytime you want to work on your air conditioner.
2. Inspect, Inspect, Inspect
Be sure to take a thorough visual inspection of the outdoor electrical panels and outdoor condenser and compressor. Direct exposure to severe weather can cause damage to these exposed portions of your system. You should repair any cracks, damaged housing, and torn insulation before you turn on your air conditioning for the first run of the year.
3. Clean or Replace the AC Filters
Usually located in the home, AC filters are easy to remove and replace. In fact, the process only takes a few minutes. You can buy a new filter at your local hardware store. For the best results, you should replace your filter once every three or four months. The filter helps to eliminate dust and other particles in the air that will recirculate indoors while the unit is running.
4. Remove Any Debris and Lids from Condenser Coils
The average air conditioning condenser is located outside of the home as a standalone large metal box. During the winter, you might opt to use lids and covers to prevent debris from accumulating on the unit. This prevents damage in the cold but can be a source of trouble if you forget to remove it. Prior to running the unit, you should remove the cover and clear away all leaves and other accumulated debris. Be sure to gently clean the coils with a soft vacuum brush to remove build-up if found.
5. Check the Insulation on Coolant Lines
Typically, these pipes come with a foam insulation to prevent issues while you use the unit. If you have any missing or damaged insulation, you must replace it before you run your air conditioner. Running the system without proper or missing insulation will lead to warmer temperature output. No one likes warm air coming through the vents while trying to keep cool indoors. To make sure you have the right insulation, you should consult with an HVAC technician.
6. Fire up for a Test Run
When you complete all of the previous steps, you can try your system for the first time. Power the condenser back on by switching on the disconnect box. Then, go indoors and set your thermostat to your desired temperature or switch it to cool. Within a minute, chilled, crisp air should blow through your home’s ventilation system.
If you do not feel comfortable performing any maintenance on your own, reach out to our professionals for service and system repair in Greenwood. All of the tips above are no substitute for a professional inspection.
Be On the Lookout for Signs of AC Repair in Greenwood
After you run your HVAC system for the first time, there are a few issues you should look for. Warm or humid air blowing through the ducts is a huge red flag. Additionally, any leaks or puddles require immediate professional service. Repairs to your home’s central air conditioning system should be handled by the pros. This is due to the fact that your HVAC system has several components that may be hazardous to your health. If you think you need a repair, call an expert before the weather gets warmer.
You might be wondering how you can be certain your AC is struggling. While some signs, like strange noises and leaks, are obvious indications of trouble, there are other signs that are much less apparent. The best way to make sure your system is ready for a long summer is to call an HVAC professional for assistance. During a pre-summer inspection, they will check for the most subtle signs of trouble. Before your system breaks down completely, an expert can repair it. You may be able to put off AC installation services.
FAQ: How do I prepare my air conditioner for the summer?
Don’t wait for your AC to fail you. If you get an annual tune-up and perform your own simple maintenance, you can avoid certain disasters. Following the preventative steps above will prevent the possibility of unusually high utility bills during the hot summer days and helps to avoid unnecessary emergency repair bills. It all starts with a maintenance call from a reputable HVAC technician.
What maintenance does air conditioning need?
During maintenance, a technician cleans your system, lubricates bearings, and checks your filters. They go through a lengthy checklist to make sure your air conditioner is ready for the warm weather, and make sure you don’t need an AC replacement in Greenwood.
Is an AC tune-up necessary?
Are you thinking of skipping this year’s annual AC tune-up? A lot can happen to components when the system is idle. Testing, inspecting, and cleaning are essential parts of HVAC maintenance. If you cannot find the time, call a professional for service and guidance. Here at Johnson, we’re ready to help you prevent the need for AC repair in Greenwood.
