During the hot summer months people rely more on air conditioning, so regular maintenance becomes even more essential for ensuring your cooling system runs efficiently and provides comfort on demand. Here is a checklist of tasks to perform yourself or have a professional complete for optimal AC operation this summer:
Inspect and Clean AC Condenser Coils
Firstly, check the outdoor AC condenser unit and clean away any debris, leaves or dirt accumulated on the coil fins. This buildup blocks effective heat transfer which reduces efficiency. Use a coil brush and hose to thoroughly remove contaminants, then spray coil cleaner for disinfected fin surfaces. Cleaning coils even once a year boosts cooling capacity.
Clean and Replace AC Filters
Next, change or clean the filter inside your air handler or furnace at least once per month during peak use. Dirty filters restrict airflow and reduce system efficiency while also overworking your AC unit. Opt for higher MERV-rated filters if possible as they filter out more particles that contribute to reduced airflow.
Lubricate All Fans and Moving Parts
Furthermore, lubricate any fans and moving parts within your AC unit after disconnecting power. Check rubber grommets, fan motors and pulleys for wear and apply lubricant approved for refrigeration use to keep parts operating smoothly. Replacing worn grommets and pulleys may be needed for optimal performance.
Inspect Thermostat Calibration
Additionally, check that your programmable thermostat properly controls AC temperatures for comfort and energy savings. Confirm it turns your AC on and off at setpoints and cycles the compressor and fan properly. Thermostats can drift over time, so recalibration or full replacement may be required for consistent cooling.
Test Capacitors and Cycle Breakers
Overall, perform a visual check of all capacitors and contactors within the unit. Look for bulges or leaks that indicate failure. Then turn breakers on and off to fully cycle contacts for a proper connection. Loose or faulty connections lead to higher power bills and component damage, so professional repair or replacement is needed for any issues found.
Following this simple maintenance checklist every spring and summer season will ensure your AC works efficiently for dependable cooling all summer long. But for a comprehensive systems check, hiring an HVAC pro remains the best strategy for tackling any unseen issues that could compromise performance or safety.