As summer approaches, the last thing you want is for your central air conditioner to fail during those first sweltering days. Preparing your air conditioning system for summer is essential to ensure your home stays cool and comfortable as temperatures rise.
At Air Specialities, we understand that the best summer days are those when you can slip into a relaxing air-conditioned home after enjoying some fun in the sun. Since 1952, we’ve been keeping it cool for both residential and commercial HVAC customers throughout West Haven, CT, and the surrounding service area. Our decades of experience mean we know the ins and outs of every AC system, from the oldest models that have been part of homes for generations to the sleek new units dotting commercial landscapes.
Let’s dive into how you can get your AC unit ready for the heat so you can chill out all season long.
Breeze Through the AC Basics
An air conditioner is a system designed to cool your home or office, making those hot days more comfortable. At the heart of this system are the outdoor compressor and condenser units, which are crucial for the air cooling process. The compressor pumps a substance called coolant through the coolant lines, moving it between the indoor and outdoor units.
As the coolant flows into the indoor evaporator coils, it absorbs heat from the indoor air, effectively lowering the temperature. The air handler then pushes the cool air through the air filter, which cleans it by removing particles and allergens. This filtered, cool air then circulates throughout your space.
Meanwhile, the absorbed heat is transferred back outside through the condenser coils and released outdoors. This cycle repeats to keep your space at a comfortable temperature.
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Your Air Conditioner
1. Start with a Safety Check
Always begin by turning off the power to your HVAC system at the circuit breaker. This protects you as you perform maintenance checks and clean various components.
2. Replace or Clean the Air Filter
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to boost your air conditioner’s performance is to clean or replace the air filter. A clogged or dirty filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder. Where does that leave you? With increased energy bills and possibly a premature replacement. Check your filter monthly and swap it out or clean it as needed.
3. Clean the Outdoor Unit
Over time, your outdoor unit might collect debris, such as leaves, dirt, and grass clippings, which can impede airflow. Gently clean the fan blades and condenser coils with a garden hose, and make sure the area around the unit is clear of vegetation and clutter for at least two feet.
4. Check for Proper Airflow
Make sure that the vents throughout your home are open and unobstructed. This includes checking that furniture, rugs, or drapes are not blocking air supply vents, as restricted airflow can cause the system to work inefficiently.
5. Test the System
After you’ve completed the maintenance checks and cleaning, turn the power back on. Test the system by setting the thermostat to cool and lowering the temperature to see how the AC responds. Listen for unusual noises and monitor for any distinctive smells. It might be time to call in a professional if anything seems out of the ordinary.
When Your Air Conditioner Unit Demands Professional Attention
While regular maintenance can be handled on your own to a certain extent, some signs indicate the need for a professional touch.
- The air conditioning unit is making unusual noises, such as grinding or squealing.
- You notice an unexpected increase in your energy bills.
- There is weak airflow from the vents.
- Warm air is blowing out of your AC unit.
- Moisture or leakage around the system, particularly around the indoor unit, points to refrigerant leaks or a blocked drain tube.
These are signs of underlying issues that need to be fixed as soon as possible if you want to be cool through the summer. Contacting an HVAC technician from Air Specialties is crucial for these complex issues!
Call Now to Ensure Your System’s Efficiency All Summer Long!
Get your AC tuned up now with Air Specialties. Our awesome techs will check your whole system, guaranteeing everything runs smoothly. That means cool air all summer long, with no worries. A little prep now saves you a sweaty mess later! Got some more burning questions? Contact us today for more temperature tips and tricks or to schedule heating and cooling services in West Haven County, CT!
