Summers in Terre Haute, IN, tend to go beyond 80 degrees. It is vital to get prepared so that you will not be caught up in an uncomfortable and unbearably hot home when the summer season hits.
Annual AC checkups are essential if you want to avoid unpleasant surprises. The best time to prepare your AC unit for summer is in the spring. During winter, your unit is idle, collecting debris and leaves. Medcalf Heating & Cooling is skilled, experienced and prepared to assist you in this important step in your home maintenance plan. Here is our guide on how to prepare your air conditioner for the summer.
Ensure Your Safety
Before you begin to work on the AC unit, ensure you switch off the circuit breaker. Also, switch off the power to the AC condenser. The control is located at the service panel. Another thing to switch off is the water-resistant disconnect box situated next to your unit. You should be able to identify it because it has a fuse, a lever and a circuit breaker.
Clear and Clean Debris from the AC Condenser
Scoop debris and leaves from the base of your condenser. Utilize a cloth and a vacuum to clean the fan blades. Ensure that you check whether there are any loose bolts. Tighten them. Check whether the AC fan motor contains oil ports. If they exist, add a few drops of spray or lightweight oil to promote lubrication. In case there is excess water in your AC unit, wipe it and then reassemble your condenser. Also, clear any brush close to your AC unit that could obstruct airflow.
Clean the AC’s Condenser Coils
Due to a large amount of debris collected by your condenser during winter, ensure you clean the fan and condenser coils. If you covered your AC unit, you won’t not have much work to do. To clean the condenser coils, follow this procedure. Remove the top and side panels from the condenser unit. Lift the top cover panel. Use a soft brush to gently clean the coils both inside and out.
Replace or Clean the Filters
If your AC filters look clogged and the summer season is approaching, it is high time to clean them or replace them with new ones. Failure to clean the filters may restrict airflow and minimize air conditioner efficiency. Dirty filters might also cause recirculation of dust in your home.
Check the AC Coolant Lines
The coolant lines that run from the air handler to the AC condenser are normally covered with insulation that helps to prevent energy loss. During your inspection, if you see a spot where the insulation is missing or frayed, you should replace it. To do so, purchase foam insulation sleeves and install them. You can also use foam insulation tape, which you should wrap in a spiral.
Consider Having a Programmable Thermostat Installed
Putting in a programmable thermostat is extremely beneficial to saving on your utility bill. It will help to reduce the energy spent cooling your home when you don’t require it. For instance, the temperature doesn’t need to be at your ideal setting when you are away at work. This is a task you might want a professional to handle. If you’re in the Terre Haute area, you can rely on our technicians at Medcalf Heating & Cooling.
Check the Ductwork for Leakage
Tending to leaky ductwork can save you a lot of money. First, inspect your ductwork for separated pieces, disconnected joints and tiny holes. In case you find any leaks, ensure you seal them using tape, mastic or an aerosol product.
Test Your AC Unit
After it has completely dried, it is essential to test your newly cleaned AC. To check its functionality, you will need to switch on the power to the condenser unit. First, turn off the thermostat. Next, turn the power on both at the main panel and the disconnect box. Finally, switch your thermostat to cooling mode.
Professional Expertise Is Available
It is important to note that professionals should handle all AC repairs. Although you can perform some maintenance tasks on your own, a professional tune-up is also worth the investment. This ensures that your AC unit is effective and efficient. The summer is approaching, and if you don’t have time to get your AC ready, turn to our crew at Medcalf Heating & Cooling in Terre Haute. We offer a complete line of cooling and heating services, including maintenance, installation and repair. Don’t hesitate to contact us today if you need any of those options. We look forward to serving your home comfort needs.
