Get Your Air Conditioner Ready for Spring in 6 Simple Steps

The spring season provides a beautiful opportunity for plants to bloom and people to soak in the sun. The temperature changes also mean turning off your heating systems and running your air conditioner for the better part of the day. Prepare your HVAC unit for spring by inspecting, cleaning, replacing, repairing or installing a new unit altogether.

A faulty AC can lead to serious malfunctions, and the inefficiency leads to an increase in your energy bill. If not addressed on time, the problem may worsen during the sweltering summer heat, leading to costly repairs. These quick maintenance practices help keep your unit in tip-top condition in preparation for the hotter months. Here are the six steps to get your HVAC system operating optimally and cooling your home efficiently.

1. Remove the Cover and Clean the Outside Condenser

Turn off the circuit breaker before working on your air conditioning system. Remember you will be cleaning it at some point; you don’t want fire accidents that could lead to buying a new unit. Start by cleaning the outside condenser unit. Ensure no grass, leaves, or other debris is stuck in the exterior unit. Use a soft brush and soapy water and wash gently. Be careful with the condenser fins, as they can bend easily. Once cleaned, inspect the exterior unit for any damage. If you find some, call your technician immediately.

2. Check, Clean and Replace the Air filter

Most indoor air units contain multiple air filters designed to prevent dirt and other contaminants from entering your home. With time, the filters become clogged with dust. Depending on the type of filters you use, you can choose to buy new ones or wash them if they’re reusable. Not cleaning your air filter leads to recirculation of dusty air in your home.

3. Check the Coolant Lines

The coolant lines are two tubes or pipes running from the condenser to the air conditioner’s evaporator. These lines are customarily covered with coolant line insulation. Check whether there is frayed or missing insulation and replace it with new foam insulation sleeves. Insulation helps keep the air cool for maximum efficiency, leading to high energy costs.

4. Check the Drainage Pipe

The air conditioning system is likely to heat as it runs. The condensate lines allow the water produced in the process to flow into a drain pan. Any blockages in the drainage can lead to water build-up that eventually flows back to the unit, damaging the unit. Inspect both lines carefully to rule out blockages.

5. Reset Your Thermostat

Part of AC maintenance is checking the thermostat to ensure it is working correctly. Set your thermostat to cool and program four to five degrees lower than the current room temperature. It might take a while for it to work due to inactivity. You should notice some cool air blowing. If there isn’t, you may need to call a technician to check before replacing it.

6. Test the Unit

Once the unit is dry and ready for use, test it by turning the power back on to your condenser unit. Set the thermostat to cool and wait to see if it cools the air. If you notice something unusual in the unit when cleaning, it’s best not to test it and wait for your technician to conduct a thorough inspection.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

It’s prudent to schedule a professional inspection and maintenance, especially if you notice problems. If your unit hasn’t been checked for more than two years, you might want to get a professional to check it even if it is in good working condition. This helps prevent premature failure and other expensive repairs.

Not sure how to check or how to clean your air conditioner? Cassel Air Conditioning & Heating Service is here to help. Call us via (916) 983-2503 for advice, check-up, installation, and maintenance services at affordable rates.

Categorised in: Air Conditioner Maintenance

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