Prepping your AC system for the summer matters for comfort, efficiency, and cost savings. This means more than just scheduling a tune-up. There are many DIY tasks that homeowners can do to ensure that their air conditioner is ready for consistent use this summer.
In this article, the HVAC experts at Koch & White Heating and Cooling provide a seven-step checklist for homeowners to get their AC systems prepared for the heat.
The filters in your AC help maintain good indoor air quality by capturing airborne particles like dust, pollen, and dander. As they do, they can become dirty and reduce the airflow to your system, causing it to work harder to cool your home. To ensure your system is working efficiently and doesn’t overheat, replace your air filters at the beginning of the season and every 1-3 months afterwards.Â
When the weather changes, you’ll need to switch your thermostat settings to cool. With kids out of school, your schedule may also change, which makes this an ideal time to adjust any programming to improve both convenience and efficiency. Homeowners may even want to consider installing a smart thermostat to take advantage of learning capabilities and added energy savings.
Maximum airflow for your outdoor condenser unit is key for system efficiency. Before the summer season, ensure yours is clean of leaves or landscaping. Carefully brush away any debris and cut back any overgrown plants. You can also turn the system off and gently hose down coils to improve performance.Â
If your ductwork is dirty, it can recirculate allergens and dust throughout your home. Plus, vents that are dusty or blocked will reduce airflow and could cause your system to overheat.
Low refrigerant levels from unaddressed leaks can inhibit the performance of your air conditioner. If you notice warm air, reduced cooling, or ice on your coils, call a professional HVAC technician to assess for leaks and recharge your system safely.Â
You’ll want to know before the first hot day of the year if your AC isn’t working properly. To avoid these issues, run a test cycle before the season starts to ensure your air conditioner turns on, blows cold air, and is able to get your home to the ideal temperature. If you experience issues, call for AC repairs to restore your system before you need it.
Expert maintenance is key for keeping your AC operating at peak performance. During an AC tune-up, a technician will fully inspect, clean, and calibrate the system to ensure energy efficiency while finding and fixing minor issues proactively. These annual maintenance appointments are a great way to protect your comfort and your investment.
If your AC isn’t ready for consistent summer cooling, call the team at Koch & White. Our experts offer a full range of cooling services, including expert repairs, seamless replacements, and routine maintenance, to ensure that your home is the ideal temperature this season. We’ve been serving the Ann Arbor community since 1934 and provide award-winning service from a highly trained team.
Call today to schedule AC maintenance for your Ann Arbor home.
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