Preventative maintenance for air conditioners reduces their operational stress. It improves airflow, supports efficient heat transfer, limits cumulative AC wear, and can even reverse existing wear. By giving your AC unit the care it deserves, you can limit your risk of costly, mid-season breakdowns.
Inspect and Replace Your Air Filter
The easiest and most important AC maintenance task is air filter replacement. Over time, HVAC air filters develop heavy coatings of lint-like debris. The thicker that buildup becomes, the harder AC units must work to move air. Running your air conditioner with a dirty air filter can lead to rising humidity, insufficient cool air, short cycling, and overheating.
Remove your air filter and inspect it once a month. Hold it up to an overhead light. If light can no longer pass through the filter’s mesh, then air can no longer move through it, either. AC manufacturers recommend replacing standard air filters every 30 to 90 days. Monthly filter inspections will help you find the right replacement schedule for your home.
Clear the Area Around the AC Condenser
Your air conditioner’s condenser sits on a concrete or composite pad in your back or side yard. During the cooling season, make sure there’s at least two feet of clearance all around it. Clean up all loose debris, and trim back any nearby foliage. Also, check the condenser for problems with pests or built-up nesting materials.
Open and Clean Air Vents
Just like air filters, your air vents can develop coatings of lint-like material. Wipe down your HVAC air vent covers with a damp cloth. If there’s a lot of dirt behind them, unscrew their covers and vacuum it out.
Before the cooling season starts, make sure that the vents throughout your house are open. Closing vents in select areas to customize airflow creates a buildup of static pressure in the ducting. Too much static pressure can lead to overheating, icing, or short cycling. Schedule an air balancing service to have an HVAC technician optimize all vent and damper positions throughout your home.
Schedule an Annual Tune-Up Service
The best way to avoid AC breakdowns during the cooling season is to schedule a professional tune-up service. All air conditioners should receive professional maintenance at least once each year. These services optimize AC efficiency, protect indoor air quality, and significantly reduce operational stress. They also allow HVAC technicians to identify and correct developing problems. With professional maintenance, technicians can also determine the need for AC replacement before the cooling season starts.
During AC maintenance, HVAC technicians:
- Calibrate thermostats
- Clean air handlers
- Sanitize condensate drains
- Inspect and clean evaporator and condenser coils
- Test refrigerant levels
- Replace worn bearings
- Lubricate moving parts
With a well-maintained air conditioner, you can enjoy peace of mind and a healthy, comfortable home. Contact Thermal Solutions today for expert AC installation and maintenance services in Gonzales, LA.