The air conditioner is a critical part of your home environment, providing a cool and comfortable atmosphere while eliminating excess humidity. It is important to keep your AC system in good working condition, and preventative maintenance is the best way to do that. While some problems are best left to professional contractors, there are a number of simple troubleshooting steps you can take to identify and sometimes resolve common AC issues.
Before performing any repairs or maintenance on your AC unit, be sure to turn off power to the system at the exterior breaker box (Image 1). This is very important for safety reasons. Additionally, make sure the thermostat is set to the correct temperature and mode. Unintentional changes in settings can cause your AC to shut off or operate improperly. Finally, check the fuses in your electrical panel to ensure they have not blown.
Oftentimes, the most common AC repair calls result from dirty or dusty filters, clogged airflow, faulty fuses and other electrical issues. While there are several things you can do to help remedy these issues, professional inspections are a necessary part of any preventative maintenance routine.
A professionally trained technician will inspect the entire system for signs of wear or potential problems. They will clean various components, including the drip pan and condensate line, and verify that each refrigerant tube is properly covered with insulation. In addition, they will test the contactor switch for continuity and proper ohms resistance. The fan and transformer will also be tested, and the evaporator coils will be cleaned to eliminate any visible blockages.
Dirty and clogged air filters restrict airflow, which causes your system to work harder and use more energy. Check your filter at least once a month and change it out when it is dirty or clogged. Additionally, a dirty evaporator coil is one of the leading causes of AC repair calls, so cleaning it with a garden hose is essential for optimal performance.
The cage on the outside of your air conditioning unit can become a magnet for leaves, dirt, branches and other debris. It is essential to periodically clean this area and clip any overgrown foliage surrounding the unit to prevent obstructions. It is also a good idea to regularly clean the condensate drain line and remove any debris accumulating near the unit.
The fins on the compressor can bend easily over time, which decreases efficiency and increases energy use. A simple tool called a fin comb can be run over the fins to straighten them. Also, remember to insulate any exposed metal areas on your outdoor unit to reduce heat loss. Lastly, inspect your air ducts for cracks or separations that can lead to poor performance and higher energy bills. By following these simple maintenance tips, you can extend the life of your AC unit and ensure it runs at peak performance throughout the hot Florida summer. Investing in an annual maintenance plan is a great way to save money and avoid expensive repairs in the future!
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