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As a resident of Oklahoma, you know that the summer temperatures can sometimes verge on treacherous.
… Imagine dealing with consecutive days of temperatures above 100 degrees.
… Throw in the excess humidity and it’s easy to see why a fully functional air conditioning system is crucial.
Below are ten AC maintenance tips you should keep in mind for hassle-free performance (and to avoid emergency HVAC repair).
1. Clean or Replace Air Filters
The air filter in your home air conditioning unit helps trap dust, dirt, and other particles which keeps them from circulating within your indoor air.
After some time, these filters will become clogged – clean or replace the filters every one to three months to avoid potential issues.
2. Clean Condenser Coils
The condenser coils are crucial in the heat transfer process. When they get too dirty, your air conditioner will struggle to remove heat from your indoor space.
Here’s how you can clean the condenser coils:
- Turn OFF the power supply.
- Open the outdoor unit’s protective grill.
- Use a garden hose to wash the coils gently.
3. Inspect the Thermostat
The thermostat controls your AC unit. If it’s faulty or delivering the wrong signal, you could be in store for an uncomfortable summer.
Inspect the thermostat to ensure the readings are accurate and change the batteries if necessary.
4. Watch for Refrigerant Leaks
The refrigerant flowing from the evaporator coils to the condenser coils and back does the bulk of the heat transfer magic. Your unit will break down if there’s a leak in the system. Most AC maintenance checklists will always cover checking for a leak.
Call in a professional if you notice any hissing noises or a sweet gaseous smell while the AC is running.
5. Clear the Condensate Drain Line
Dirt and algae can clog your condensate drain line and cause a backup that can lead to mold and mildew growth around the indoor unit. If the problem persists, it may damage your air conditioning unit. Clean the drain line with a mix of water and bleach.
6. Check Your Ductwork
Leaky ducts can reduce the efficiency of your AC system. Seal them with duct tape to keep most of the conditioned air inside your home.
7. Clear the Area Around the Outdoor Unit
Your outdoor unit should never have plants, debris, or other objects within two feet of it.
8. Lubricate Moving Parts
Your AC’s fan motors and belts need to be lubricated regularly to reduce friction and wear, but be sure to use the right lubricant.
9. Inspect the electrical Connections
Any loose connection can cause your AC unit to stop working. Worse, it might trigger an electrical fire. Call an HVAC technician if you spot any potential electrical issues.
10. Get Professional Maintenance
Following DIY AC maintenance tips is rarely enough. You need to schedule professional maintenance annually to ensure your air conditioner is in the right shape to take on Oklahoma’s summer months.
To ensure your air conditioning system will continue to run smoothly through the summer months, call the professionals at Above & Beyond at (405) 256-3831.
