Summers in McKinney, TX get very warm. Before the mercury starts to climb, it’s a good idea to make sure your air conditioner is ready for the task. Keep these tips in mind to make sure you’re not sweating it out on the hottest day of the year.
Clean or Replace the Filters
The easiest and most important way to make sure your air conditioner unit is ready for the summer is by cleaning or replacing the air filters. Dirty air filters restrict air flow, recirculate dust throughout your home, and reduce the efficiency of your unit.
If your unit has reusable air filters, clean them with warm water and soap and allow them to dry before putting them back into the unit. If you have to replace your air filters, make sure you note the specific size you need to buy. No matter what type of filter your unit uses, you should replace or clean it once a month.
Check the Coolant Lines
The coolant lines are the tubes that run from the evaporator to the outside condenser. These tubes are typically wrapped with a foam insulation to keep them from losing energy and efficiency. Before you run your unit, inspect these lines to make sure the insulation is still in good shape. If there are areas where the insulation is missing or frayed, it will need to be replaced.
Clear Debris Around Unit
Before you start your unit for the first time, be sure the area around it is clear and there’s no debris blocking it. Everything from grass clippings, debris, and plants can impede air flow to and around your unit, which will cause it to run less efficiently, or damage it and stop it from working altogether. With a brush or clean cloth, gently clear away any dirt or debris from around the outside of the unit.
Throughout the summer, make sure you continue to check for weeds or tall grass around your unit and clear them away. Additionally, Uou’ll want to make sure the condensate drain is clear and the area around it is open so water won’t backup in your unit. If your air conditioner is running, you should see some water dripping out of the drain pipe on the outside of your house.
Clean the Indoor Ductwork
The outdoor components of your air conditioner aren’t the only parts you should inspect before the heat of summer. You should also make sure your indoor ductwork is clean and ready to go. Since most of the ductwork is tucked away behind walls and ceilings, it’s important that a professional checks the interior of the ductwork. .
However, you can inspect the visible parts of your ductwork for gaps, and clean off any dust from the registers. It’s also a good idea to use this time to inspect for any water damage. If you see any damage from moisture or spot any mold, you’ll want to get it repaired right away.
To be sure your air conditioner unit is ready for the long and hot summer, give the professionals at Bill Joplin’s Air Conditioning & Heating a call at 888-414-4655 and schedule your air conditioning preventative maintenance.
