Top 10 Things To Get Your AC System Ready For The Dog Days Of Summer

By Paul Broerman, Choice Comfort Services, Inc.

Before the heat really rolls in and makes us long for a tall glass of lemonade and a nice chair in front of the air conditioning unit… make time to run through an AC maintenance checklist. AC contractors are kept very busy during the extreme temperatures of summer and winter, so it’s best to conduct a maintenance check while the weather is mild. Scheduling an off-season tune up will help prevent problems before they happen. There are several steps that you can take yourself, as well as scheduling a routine check-up with your HVAC professionals, to get your system summer-ready!

Following is a 10 Ten Step Maintenance plan to get you started:

Get the right equipment installed correctly – Replacing old equipment is a great way to save energy costs and money. To reach its full potential, a system must be the right size for your home and be properly installed. Improper installation or sizing can significantly reduce your system’s efficiency.
Check your thermostat settings – Want the best of both worlds? Why not try installing a modern smart thermostat. Installing a smart thermostat is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to save energy costs while you are away, but keep you comfortable when you are home. It will automatically adjust your home’s temperature depending on the needs of your schedule. You also have the convenience of operating it right from your smart phone.
Run the air conditioning prior to warmer weather – Do a test run for about 10 ten minutes to check for any warning signs. Don’t wait to turn on your system until summer is in full swing or you just may find yourself at the bottom of a long waiting list when the last thing you want to do is be uncomfortable.
Change filters regularly - Inspect the air filter monthly and replace as necessary. If it looks dirty after a month, change it. At a minimum, change the filter every 3 three months to improve air quality and efficiency.
Check the area surrounding your outdoor unit – Remove leaves and debris from around your system, trim back any nearby bushes and clean out leaves or dirt from the top of the AC unit to improve air flow.
Seal ducts properly – Unsealed ducts routed through unconditioned spaces like attics and crawlspaces allow heated and cooled air to escape. These leaks ultimately reduce your systems efficiency.
Listen for unusual noises – Unusual noises are often a sign that there are potential problems. Sounds like duct popping can be an indicator of airflow restrictions and high pitch squealing or screeching noises can indicate failing motor bearings. It is rare that these strange noises will just go away, but if you’re aware of them, you can often avoid being without A/C when you need it most.
Check for standing water and condensation– Standing water near the indoor unit or excessive condensation build up on the duct could indicate a plugged condensate drain or worse it could be from ice buildup due to an airflow issue or refrigerant leak. Catching it early can prevent damage to other components.
Check high and low voltage wiring to outdoor unit – During the off season, it’s common to find areas where a mouse or chipmunk have chewed the electrical wires controlling the outdoor unit.
Keep vents and registers clear – Airflow problems can reduce your system’s efficiency. Keep registers and vents clear of furniture and other items that may restrict airflow.

With this maintenance list, you will be able to quickly identify if your system is going to give you full comfort this summer or leave you high and dry.! For more information about air conditioning maintenance, check out our website: www.choicecomfortservices.com