The weather is starting to cool down, and that means it’s time to start thinking about winterizing your home. But don’t forget about your air conditioner! As the temperature begins to drop, many people find themselves reaching for the thermostat. However, before you crank up the heat, there are a few things you should do to make sure your AC unit is ready for Fall. Fall is a great time to do some routine maintenance on your AC unit to help keep it running smoothly all winter long. In this blog post, we will discuss three fall maintenance tips that you can use to keep your home air conditioner running smoothly.
Change Your Air Filters
One of the most important things that you can do for your air conditioner is to change the filter. A dirty filter can cause a number of problems. First, the unit has to work harder to pull air through the filter, which means it uses more energy and drives up your electricity bill. Second, the dirt and dust trapped in the filter can eventually make their way into the AC unit itself, leading to corrosion and other damage. And finally, a dirty air filter can actually make the air in your home less healthy, as it recirculates pollutants instead of trapping them. It is recommended that you change your air conditioner’s filter every three months, or more often if necessary. A fresh air filter will help your AC run more effectively. Here’s how to change your air filter in just a few easy steps:
- First, locate your AC unit’s air filter. This is typically located behind a metal grille on the front of the unit.
- Carefully remove the old air filter and discard it.
- Place the new air filter into the unit, making sure it is positioned correctly.
- Close the metal grille and give your AC unit a test run to make sure everything is working properly.
Professional AC Maintenance
Another valuable tip is to reach out to the HVAC experts at airxtremellc.com whenever your air conditioning system requires repair or maintenance. This will help to ensure that your unit is running properly and identify any potential problems. It is recommended that your air conditioner be serviced at least once per year. Here are just a few of the problems that can occur if you don’t have your AC unit serviced:
- Reduced airflow – If your AC unit isn’t serviced, the airflow can be reduced, making it less effective at cooling your home.
- Build-up of dirt and dust – Over time, dirt and dust can build up inside your AC unit, which can impede its ability to function properly.
- Ice formation – Ice can form on the coils of your AC unit, making it less efficient at cooling your home.
- Increased energy bills – If your AC unit isn’t working properly, it will have to work harder to cool your home, resulting in higher energy bills.
- Premature wear and tear – Servicing your AC unit helps to prevent premature wear and tear, so it will last longer.
So next time you’re debating whether or not to schedule a service appointment, remember: it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Check Your Outdoor AC Unit
Finally, make sure that you keep an eye on the outdoor unit of your air conditioner. A more obvious and easy fix is to remove any debris that may have accumulated around the unit, and make sure that the area around the unit is clear. This will help to ensure proper airflow and prevent your air conditioner from working harder than it needs to. Most people don’t give their outdoor air conditioning unit much thought – until it stops working, that is. Then they’re left wondering what went wrong and how to prevent the same problem from happening again. To help keep your AC unit in top condition, here are a few problems to watch out for:
- Freezing – If the temperature dips too low, the water in the unit could freeze, causing all sorts of problems.
- Overheating – This is probably the most common problem with outdoor AC units. If it gets too hot, it can cause the unit to overheat and shut down.
- Rusting – Rust is another common problem with outdoor AC units, particularly if they’re not made of stainless steel.
- Wiring problems – If the wiring in your unit becomes damaged, it could create all kinds of safety hazards.
Turning on your air conditioner for the first time this season can be a relief, but it’s important to remember to keep up with regular maintenance in order to ensure that your system is running smoothly and efficiently. By doing so, you can help avoid any costly repairs down the road and keep your home cool and comfortable all season long.
By following these simple tips, you can help to keep your home air conditioner running smoothly all winter long. If you have any questions about ac repair in West Palm Beach, or if you would like to schedule a service appointment, please contact us today. We would be happy to help!