Preparing Your AC Unit for Summer

As the weather warms up, you may want to begin preparing your air conditioning unit for summer. By preparing ahead of time, you can prevent any potential setbacks by the time you need to use your unit. Help prepare your AC unit with a few simple steps:

Clean or Replace Filters

Some units may use a reusable or replaceable filter. Cleaning or changing the filter helps prevent dust and debris from building up in the unit. Energy Star says dirt and dust buildup in your system can result in “expensive maintenance and/or early system failure.

Changing filters also helps the unit work effectively. When the filter gets dirty, it reduces air flow out of the unit and your system must work harder to expel cool air. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) argues that, when it comes to home cooling, the fastest way to save on energy is to “regularly clean and replace your cooling unit’s filters.

Test Run

On a warm spring day, initiate a test run of your system. This can help determine if the system works the way it should. Turn off your unit and contact a professional if you notice:

  • Unusual and/or loud noises
  • A strange smell
  • The unit does not cool as well as it should

Leaving the unit on could potentially harm it. By shutting it off, you prevent further damage.

Thermostat Check

As you test your system, you can also monitor your thermostat. Make sure your AC unit cools to the desired temperature for proper operation.

You can also take this time to update your thermostat. Programmable thermostats can save you energy by allowing you to program your air conditioning to turn on or off at specified times. That way, you can stay comfortable and save energy.

Clean the Area

Air Conditioning Outside Unit

Keeping the outdoor component of your cooling system clear of dust and dirt can help with efficient airflow. Get rid of any leaves, twigs, grass clippings, and other debris that may surround your unit. For units with an outdoor condenser, the DOE says clearing foliage back at least two feet can “allow for adequate airflow around the condenser.

You also want to avoid dirty coils. Dirty coils in indoor or outdoor units can reduce the airflow. Regular cleaning can prevent this. Make sure to shut the power to the unit off before allowing anyone to work inside the condenser. We recommend having a professional clean your condenser.

Routine Maintenance

Lastly, consider preventative maintenance. Getting your cooling system routinely checked by a professional can help prevent major issues down the line or let you know what needs correction.

Energy Star recommends having your cooling system checked in the spring, before you need to use it, as HVAC maintenance professionals get busy during the summer months.

 

Don’t sweat your air conditioning unit this summer. Stay prepared by prepping in the spring! In the market for HVAC equipment and accessories? HomElectrical offers a large selection of HVAC supplies, including air conditioners and mini split systems to help keep you cool this summer.

Recommended Reading

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Electricity is produced using fossil fuels, which release greenhouse gases. Discover which heating and cooling system works best for your home or business.

Avery Dietzen
Avery Dietzen

Originally from Wisconsin, Avery earned her degree in English before making the trip down to the Atlanta, GA area. Writer by day, reader by night, she prides herself on having a creative outlook and tries to instill that in everything she writes. As a content writer for HomElectrical, she uses her skills to share tips and tricks about lighting, HVAC, and going green. If she’s not writing, she’s reading, painting, hanging out with her dog, or spending time with family and friends.

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