How to Prepare Your Air Conditioning Service for Fall
When you service your air conditioner, it helps it run efficiently and provides cool air during the warmer months. To prevent your cooling system from breaking down and causing inconveniences, schedule an air conditioning service. Here are some ways to prepare your air conditioning unit for fall:
Clean or Replace Filters
When your filters are full of dirt, dust, and debris, the air conditioner uses excess energy and strains to cool your home. Reusable filters can be cleaned using a vacuum or a gentle brush to eliminate contaminants that ruin indoor air quality. Waiting for the filters to dry before reinstalling them is recommended to prevent moisture buildup that could lead to mold growth or damage to the system.
If the filters are damaged, a technician will recommend a replacement to allow fresh air to flow through the system. Depending on the air conditioner’s type and size, a technician may advise you on choosing an ideal filter. After replacing the filters, this professional tests the system to determine if they are working correctly. If you use disposable filters, be sure to change them consistently.
Check for Proper Drainage
During air conditioning service, a technician removes any debris or obstructions clogging the drain line. They check the drain pan to see if it’s misaligned and can reposition it correctly to direct water into the drain line. If your system uses a condensate pump, a technician inspects it for leaks or mechanical failures and fixes them.
To prevent water puddles around your AC unit, an expert checks and fastens all drainage connections. Many systems have an overflow switch or sensor that shuts down the AC if the water level in the pan is too high. To determine if it’s operating correctly, a professional turns on the switch. If it has malfunctioned, they replace it.
Inspect the Thermostat
A functioning thermostat helps maintain the desired indoor temperature and keeps your home comfortable. Using a soft, dry cloth, a technician removes dust and debris that may impede the device’s functionality. Adjusting temperature settings helps the thermostat to respond and maintain the desired indoor temperature well. If there are any loose wires within your thermostat, a professional tightens them to boost effective operation. A professional may also install a programmable thermostat and set it at ideal temperatures.
Examine the Ductwork
When ducts are leaky or clogged, they allow air to either escape or get blocked, resulting in parts of your house being cooler than others. To prevent that from happening, a technician checks joints and seals for gaps, cracks, or loose fittings. Conducting an airflow test helps determine if there are leaks within your ductwork. For minor leaks, sealing gaps and joints prevents air from seeping through, allowing your space to receive adequate air. Using specialized duct cleaning tools, a technician gets rid of obstructions, such as dirt and dust.
Assess and Clean the Outdoor Unit
A qualified technician inspects the outdoor unit for visible damage, such as cracks, rust, or wear, on different components and replaces them. They also check refrigerant levels and look for any potential leaks that might prevent your AC from functioning properly. To help your AC work safely, a professional checks the capacitor, contactor, and wiring for any damage and fixes them. For proper airflow, it is beneficial to clear leaves, dirt, twigs, or grass clippings around the outdoor unit. For a quieter operation, a professional checks the fan to see if it’s worn or has dirt buildup.
Schedule a Professional Air Conditioning Service
Getting an air conditioner ready for fall helps prevent issues such as an overly hot house and poor airflow. It will help make your home more comfortable as the temperature drops. A qualified technician inspects your AC and fixes all underlying problems to let it work properly. To boost comfort and efficiency and to make sure your AC is properly maintained, schedule an air conditioning service today.
