Learning About HVAC Repairs

Summer is almost here, which means it's time to start preparing for those sweltering hot days. Too often, people neglect their air conditioners until they break down completely. But don't sweat it. With just a few simple steps, you can ensure that your unit runs at optimal performance, saving you money in the long run.

This article will provide some practical tips on maintaining your air conditioner so you can enjoy a comfortable and refreshing summer.

Clean the Outdoor Unit 

Your air conditioner's outdoor unit is often exposed to the elements all year round, which means it can accumulate dirt and debris quite quickly. The dirt can build up over time and cause your unit to run less efficiently. You'll start to notice a decrease in cooling power and an increase in energy bills. To prevent this, it's important to keep the outdoor unit clean. Give it a once-over and clean it with a hose, making sure not to damage any parts or wires. You can also clear any leaves or debris from around the unit to ensure adequate airflow, which is essential for optimal performance. But be careful not to damage the fins on the sides of your outdoor unit. The fins help your air conditioner dissipate heat, so if they're bent or damaged, it will reduce the cooling power of your unit.

Check Your Thermostat

Your thermostat controls your air conditioner's temperature and overall function, so it's important to ensure it works properly. Common thermostat issues could be anything from a malfunctioning temperature control system to incorrect wiring. For example, if your thermostat is set to cool, but your house isn't cooling, then it's likely that the wiring is incorrect. The wiring transfers signals from the thermostat controls to the air conditioner, and if it's not correct, then your unit won't function properly.

If you have an older thermostat, you can upgrade to a programmable model that allows you to set the temperature to a timer. This will save you money in the long run because you can program your air conditioner to turn on and off at certain times of the day.

Schedule a Professional Maintenance Check

Even if you're on top of cleaning and replacing filters, it's still necessary to get your air conditioner professionally serviced regularly. This ensures that your unit is running at its optimal performance and will help identify any potential problems before they become major. A professional technician can inspect your unit for any issues, such as leaks or condensation buildup, test the compressor's performance, and thoroughly clean the unit. Leaks can occur from loose pipes or connections and can be solved relatively quickly, so it's important to address them as soon as possible. Condensation buildup can cause corrosion and reduce the life of your unit, especially if it's not addressed in time.

Although it may seem like an unnecessary expense initially, a professional assessment will save you money in the long run by preventing larger problems before they occur.

Contact a local HVAC service to learn more about air conditioning maintenance.