Air conditioners are a necessary evil in most parts of the country. In autumn, they can keep you cool and comfortable, but in the summer, they can be a lifesaver. Regardless of when you use your air conditioner, it is important to make sure that the cooling unit is properly prepared for spring.Â
Air conditioning Brisbane owner Gary Hill explains that some of these tips may seem like common sense, but it is important to remember that proper maintenance is the key to keeping your air conditioner running at its best – and prevention is always cheaper than cure. If you take the time to inspect your system now, you can avoid the hassle and expense of a major repair later on.
Here are some useful tips to help get your air conditioner ready for warmer weather.
Change your air filter.
A dirty air filter can reduce airflow and cause your air conditioner to work harder than necessary, which can lead to decreased efficiency and increased energy costs. Be sure to change your air filter at least once a month.
Clean or replace your ductwork.
If your home has access to crawl spaces or attics, the ductwork that runs from your air handler unit should be gently vacuumed out and inspected. If it is dirty, having your ducts cleaned may drastically improve airflow. If you notice any holes or tears in the ductwork, these should be repaired as soon as possible – doing so can also lead to increased energy efficiency and lower utility bills.
Check vents for blockages.
Blockage of an air vent can restrict airflow, causing a decrease in heating/cooling performance and reduced comfort levels throughout your home. Vents should be removed from the outside of your home and double-checked for blockages. Another quick fix is to simply turn on fans – this will help circulate air throughout your home.
Test for a faulty thermostat.
Faulty or malfunctioning thermostats may cause misleading temperature readings and prevent the air conditioner from getting to its full potential, which can cause significant strain on your system during peak periods of use. It is important to avoid overlooking this simple test – simply replace it if you notice any problems with your current thermostat.
Check the wiring.
While some HVAC units have their circuit boards, many require an electrical connection from components at the exterior of your home (like an outdoor compressor) back to the inside where they are wired into dryers and/or furnaces so all appliances work together as designed by using one thermostat. Damaged wiring can create dangerous shorts and costly repairs, so make sure to inspect all wiring before the onset of spring weather.
Inspect the exterior unit.
The outside condenser unit should be free from debris, such as leaves, twigs and branches. If there is an accumulation of debris, it can lead to decreased airflow and a decrease in system performance. Additionally, make sure that the area around the unit is clear – if it’s not, the added heat will cause the compressor to work harder than necessary, which could lead to premature failure.
Check refrigerant levels.
Low levels of refrigerant can prevent your air conditioner from reaching its full cooling potential and may also lead to a rise in utility bills because your system will be working much harder to keep you cool. Make sure that you have a properly trained technician conduct this test – it’s not something that the average homeowner should attempt.
Check for ice dams on your roof.
One of the leading causes of an expensive air conditioner repair is clogged drain lines resulting from ice dams during winter months, so try and catch them early before they become larger problems or let it go throughout the summer allowing mould to grow at twice the rate as compared to untreated wood roofs. Summon a reputable contractor if you notice these conditions beginning. Do not wait until water seeps into attic insulation and ceilings causing substantial damage you can avoid altogether with regular inspection and a well-performing air conditioning unit.
