Your antiperspirant isn’t the only thing that’s going to have to start working a little harder this summer. Your air conditioner is, too.
During Florida’s sweltering summer months, the AC unit you rely on to keep you and your family comfortable must work ceaselessly to produce cool air. So, before asking your air conditioner to step it up a notch during those long, hot days, show it a little love. Here’s how to prepare your AC for summer.
Change the Filter
This is something you should do about once a month, but changing your AC filter is especially important before a season change. Your AC filter is there to trap dirt, dust, pet dander, mold and other particles before they reach the inside of your system. When these particles build up, airflow slows down. If things become badly clogged, you air conditioner’s cooling coil could ice up, causing your entire system to shut down. And that’s certainly not a problem you’ll want to face in the middle of July.
A clean filter will also help to maximize your system’s overall efficiency, keeping your home cooler and your energy bill lower.
Check the Drain Line
To produce cool air, your air conditioner takes in warm air and passes it through a cooling coil, and the mix of hot and cold results in condensation. Generally, the excess liquid travels down a drainpipe into a drain pan located outside your home or in your attic. Check your drain pan to see if there is water in it. If there’s not, there may be a clog in the drain line. If condensation from your AC is not properly drained, it could lead to water damage in your home, so be sure to have a professional come and check things out!
Clear Debris From the Condenser
Your AC’s condenser unit is located outside the home, meaning it is exposed to different elements than the indoor components of your system. To maximize efficiency, clear the area around you condenser unit free of leaves, twigs and other debris. Make sure there is a barrier of at least two feet between the condenser and any shrubs, weeds and tree branches.
Wipe debris from the condenser unit fan by first carefully removing the fan grill. You can also use a hose to clean the sides of your condenser unit, but try not to spray water directly into the unit to avoid damage.
Schedule an AC Maintenance Visit
There’s still a lot to be done to get your AC unit geared up for summer. And with your sweat glands on the line, it’s best to be fully prepared.
At One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® of Clearwater, our experienced technicians have the right AC maintenance program to fit your family’s needs. In addition to getting your system in top shape, we’ll also test all of your equipment to minimize the risk of needing costly repairs when heat reaches its peak. Visit our website to learn more about our maintenance services or call today to schedule an appointment!