Air conditioners cool and dehumidify the air in your home to create a comfortable and healthy indoor environment, making them crucial for the hot summer months. So, preparing your AC system at the beginning of the season is essential. To avoid costly repairs and extend the life of your air conditioner, here are three preventative care tips to consider before turning on your AC after winter:
Inspect the Indoor Unit’s Parts
An important step before turning on your air conditioning is to clean and inspect the parts for your indoor unit. This allows it to cool your home safely and effectively. Here is how to take care of the parts:
- Change your air filter: To turn on your AC safely, change your air filter. Air filters should be inspected every month and replaced every three months or as needed depending on how often you use your AC. If your unit has a permanent air filter, clean it monthly. Clean air filters improve your home’s air quality.
- Clean the air vents: Dirty air vents can worsen indoor air quality, causing allergies and other respiratory problems. Practice cleaning your vents at least once every three months using a damp cloth to remove obstructions. Your air vents should also remain open for even airflow.
- Inspect ductwork for damage or leaks: Take an audit of the overall state of your ductwork. Are there any loose or open joints? Are there any leaks? Note any inefficiencies and fix the area with a sealant or contact a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) technician to have a professional repair the damage.
- Ensure your thermostat is working: Your thermostat is responsible for temperature control throughout your home. As a preventative measure, ensure your thermostat works and replace your batteries for optimal performance. Also, consider installing a smart (programmable) thermostat that can adapt easily to fluctuating outdoor temperatures. This helps to reduce your energy bills.
Inspect the Outdoor Unit’s Parts
The outdoor component of your air conditioning system, commonly known as the condenser unit, transfers heat from your home to the outside air. For this section of your air conditioning unit to perform properly, inspect and clean it before turning your AC on after winter. Start by following these steps:
- Remove the protective cover from your condenser: In most cases, a protective cover is placed over the condenser unit during winter; however, you should remove it before use. If the outdoor unit is obstructed, it reduces your air conditioner’s effectiveness and creates unnecessary strain on the appliance.
- Clean the condenser: For proper heat exchange, the structure needs to be clean. Clear away any leaves, branches, dirt or pests that have made the condenser unit or coils their home. This optimizes the performance of your AC.
- Inspect the condenser for damage: Outdoor units are more susceptible to wear and tear during winter. Inspect it for any damage, missing or loose electrical parts and consult your HVAC contractor for expert repair services.
Schedule Routine Maintenance for Your AC
Before summer starts, schedule a service tune-up – your air conditioning system should be serviced at least once yearly by a licensed HVAC technician. Regular maintenance maximizes its performance, minimizes the risk of breakdown and extends an AC unit’s lifespan.
Air Conditioning Installation in Canada
Sweltering summer days can be unbearable if your air conditioning system isn’t cooling your space correctly. Contact Canada HVAC to ensure your AC unit is working efficiently. We are a licensed, bonded and insured online company with over 30 years of industry experience. We supply high-quality HVAC products and can connect you with a local HVAC installation specialist. Our prices, maintenance, warranty and guarantee plans are unmatched.
Call us at 833-226-4822 or complete our contact form to speak with an expert HVAC technician.
