As temperatures quickly rise in the hot summer months, switching on the air conditioner is inevitable. Before the heat rolls in, there are some things to check to ensure your AC is working correctly. In some cases, your air conditioner will require minor repairs to work efficiently after months of inactivity. Failing to maintain your AC unit can lead to issues that prevent your house from being as cool as you need it to keep your comfort.
Luckily, there are some things you can do to ensure that your system is working correctly. The best way to keep your house cool and comfortable when the heat becomes unbearable is to hire an AC technician to do a routine maintenance check. A reliable professional will thoroughly inspect your system, perform basic repairs, and ensure you are ready for summer.
Here are few things to do before it’s time to turn on the air conditioner.
Replace Your Filters
Replacing your filters is the most cost-effective way to get your air conditioner ready for use in summer. Unfortunately, the air filter easily gets clogged with dust during inactivity. That’s why they need to be regularly replaced to keep your AC working well. Ideally, you should replace or clean your filter every 2-3 months. If you don’t change your filters regularly, air movement will be restricted, and your air conditioner won’t work efficiently. So replace your air filters before turning on your AC for the summer months.
Clean the Outdoor Unit and Space Around It
Another thing you should do before you switch on your AC is to inspect your outside unit and space around it. The condenser is a device that transfers heat from your home to the outside air. Clear the area surrounding the condenser. Make sure the air conditioner isn’t obstructed by anything before turning it on. Remove any dust and leaves from the condenser’s base and the area outside the condenser unit. Ensure that the panels that cover electrical connections are correctly fastened, the refrigerant lines are properly insulated, and are in good condition.
Examine the Indoor Unit
Before it’s time to use your air conditioner, examine your interior components. Examine the electrical connections and circuit breakers to ensure they are in good working condition. You should also replace the batteries in your thermostat. Finally, check the ducts and vents to ensure they are not blocked.
If you aren’t handy or don’t know much about AC units, hire a professional AC company to examine your unit. Checking these components before you need to use your unit can help ensure your system is working as you need it when the temperatures rise.
Perform a Trial Run
Once you’ve followed the steps above, do a test run. Pay attention to how your system is working. Turn on your air conditioner, check for airflow from the vents and make sure the air is cooling as set by the thermostat. Check for foul odors, strange noises, or ducts that are blowing hot air. If these problems persist for an extended length of time, you should turn off the air conditioner and call a technician.
Contact a Reliable AC Company for an Inspection
If you want to make sure your system is working as you need it when the hot weather rolls in, you need to hire a reliable Diamond Bar AC company to check your system. Contact Rene’s Plumbing, Heating, and Airconditioning to schedule an appointment.