About 90% of homes in the United States have air conditioning. After all, as summer temperatures soar, a well-functioning air conditioning system is essential for comfort and health. You can do your part by maintaining your unit, minimizing the problems you’ll encounter on the year’s hottest days.
Imagine thinking you’re returning home to a cool, refreshing oasis, only to find your AC blowing warm air or, worse, not working at all. The discomfort can be unbearable, and malfunctioning systems can even lead to health issues like respiratory problems due to poor air quality.
Regular maintenance is the key to avoiding these scenarios and ensuring your AC runs efficiently. By taking simple, proactive steps, you can not only enhance the performance and longevity of your system but also save on energy bills and costly AC repairs.
Completing some easy maintenance tasks and learning a few troubleshooting tips will keep your AC in top shape. Here’s a look at how you can create a cool, comfortable, and healthy indoor environment all summer long.
We should also mention that it is important to have the proper air conditioning installed for your home or business. The SEER rating of an AC unit will help determine the energy efficiency of your unit, while the BTU and tonnage of the system determine the cooling capacity for the amount of square feet coverage. Schedule a meeting with one of Hunt’s Services Comfort Consultants to accurately evaluate your needs and assist with choosing the best AC system for you.
Simple Air Conditioning Maintenance Tasks to Keep Your Unit Running
The goal is to ensure your air conditioner fires right up the first time you use it in the summer and keeps your house cool for the next few months. Completing a few simple maintenance tasks will keep your AC in top condition and reduce the problems you’ll encounter.
A technician can also help with this maintenance, offer guidance, and handle the repair whenever something is amiss. Regular maintenance jobs include:
Cleaning Filters
Filters trap dust and debris, ensuring clean air circulation. There are different types of filters: disposable, reusable, and HEPA.
You should replace disposable filters every 1-3 months. Reusable filters need to be washed and dried thoroughly before reinstallation. HEPA filters, which do an excellent job of trapping fine particles, require regular checking and replacement per the manufacturer’s instructions.
To access and clean filters, locate the filter compartment, usually behind the return air grille or inside the AC unit. Carefully remove the filter, and if it’s reusable, wash it with water and mild soap, then let it dry completely before reinserting.
Checking Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is vital for the cooling process because it absorbs heat and releases it outside. Low refrigerant levels can reduce your cooling efficiency. To check for leaks, inspect the refrigerant lines for any oily residue or hissing sounds. Since handling refrigerants requires professional expertise, it’s best to call a technician if you suspect a leak.
Inspecting and Cleaning Coils
Coils help heat exchange, so keeping them clean is essential for efficiency. This job requires a soft brush and a commercial coil cleaner.
First, turn off the AC. Next, you’ll use your brush to remove any dirt and debris present from the coils. Then, apply the coil cleaner as directed and rinse with water if necessary. Ensure the coils are dry before restarting the unit.
Checking and Clearing Condensate Drains
The condensate drain removes moisture from the AC. Some signs of a blocked drain you’ll want to be aware of include water pooling around the unit or musty odors.
To clear blockages, use a wet/dry vacuum to suction out the clog from the drain line. Regularly checking and clearing this drain prevents water damage and mold growth.
Performing these maintenance jobs can keep your AC system running smoothly and efficiently. Of course, you can also sign up for a maintenance package to ensure you never miss a step or forget the necessary upkeep.
Troubleshooting Common Air Conditioning Issues
Numerous symptoms could arise that point you toward the cause of your AC problem. Before you panic, try figuring out the cause of the issue because it could be something straightforward.
If your AC isn’t cooling as it should, start by looking for dirty filters and blocked vents. It can also help to double-check your thermostat settings to confirm the system is set to cool.
Other causes of this problem could be low refrigerant levels or dirty coils, which you’ll want a technician to check to ensure the job is completed correctly.
Unusual sounds coming from your AC can signal various issues. For instance, rattling likely means the unit has loose parts or debris, which you can check yourself.
However, if you hear a buzzing sound, you could have a loose component or electrical issue requiring professional assistance. The same goes for clicking noises, which indicate a failing thermostat, or grinding sounds, which could mean you have a failing motor or bearing.
Troubleshooting your air conditioning issues can save you money by avoiding unnecessary technician visits and ensuring you complete repairs at optimal times. Keep an eye on your unit to guarantee you’re on top of potential problems as soon as they start.
Tips for Ensuring Optimal AC Performance
You must maintain your air conditioning system to ensure it runs efficiently. Air conditioners are responsible for about 6% of all electricity consumption in the country, so finding ways to reduce energy use is vital.
Regular professional maintenance is the most straightforward way to maximize efficiency because your technician can proactively make repairs while ensuring all the necessary maintenance is complete.
While professional maintenance will cost a bit upfront, the benefits far outweigh this expense. Regular maintenance prevents costly repairs, improves energy efficiency, and extends the life of your unit, potentially saving you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in the long run.
Call Hunt’s Services to learn more about maintaining your air conditioning unit and ensuring it’s ready for summer. We’re available to prolong your AC unit’s life at 253-533-7500 in Seattle, Tacoma, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, Olympia, and dozens of other communities in Western Washington.
