spring cooling maintenance
Just chill.
All the cool kids are doing it.
Spring is here! And while there is still snow on the ground in places, warm temperatures are on their way. Is your home cooling system ready to go?
Why Do You Need Spring Cooling Maintenance?
Well, because the experts say so, including the U.S. Department of Energy, HVAC experts, system manufacturers, and home warranty services. And it’s not just about making money. It’s about providing you with information that helps keep you, your family, and your home comfortable, safe, and efficient.
If you turn on your air conditioner as soon as warm weather arrives, without having it inspected and cleaned, you risk costly problems at the worst possible time. You don’t want your cooling system going down when the summer is at its hottest. In addition, your air conditioner or swamp cooler will last longer if it has regularly scheduled inspections and cleanings. Here are some other reasons to keep up with the maintenance of your system.
- Helps your system perform with you greater efficiency.
- This means your cooling system doesn’t work as hard and uses less energy lowering your carbon footprint.
- Lower energy consumption also means lower utility bills.
Always use a reputable HVAC contractor like All American Heating that employs knowledgeable, skilled technicians that provide top-notch service and make sure your equipment is in peak condition. Companies that stand behind their work make sure their technicians are up-to-date on the latest training programs from manufacturers.
What’s Included in a Tune-Up?
Your cooling system tune-up includes completing the following tasks to increase system efficiency and longevity:
- Lubricate the moving parts – like the fan and motor – to prevent friction.
- Tighten electrical connections.
- Clean and inspect essential components for damage.
- Test the electrical control of your system to make sure it cycles properly. Improper cycling places unnecessary strain on your system and can reduce its ability to cool your home effectively.
- Check refrigerant levels and inspect for leaks.
- Inspect the coils. Dirty or scaled coils can prevent the optimum exchange of heat, rendering your system less efficient.
- Inspect terminals and wires for corrosion and rust, and take steps to prevent rust and corrosion if necessary.
- Measure the airflow of your system to ensure proper operation and optimum cooling.
- Flush the condensate drain to prevent clogs during periods of high humidity.
What Can You Do?
Outside of your professional cooling system tune-up every spring, there are a number of steps you can take to help keep your system running efficiently and making your home cool and comfortable:
- Check your air filter monthly. It should be replaced every three months, at a minimum. If it’s clogged with dust and debris, replace it sooner. Running your system with a dirty filter lets dust buildup within the system and limits airflow. A clean filter enables your system to function efficiently and helps improve your indoor air quality.
- Wash off the outdoor condensing unit with a hose every month. This will help keep the coils and fins clear of dirt and debris that can inhibit the exchange of heat and restrict airflow.
- Ensure that outdoor plants are at least 18 inches away from the unit.
- Maintain and clean the area around your indoor unit to keep dust from entering the airflow, and to reduce debris in your condensate pan, which can cause clogs that result in water back-up and system shutdown.
- Seal or caulk any air leaks around doors and windows to prevent conditioned air from getting out and hot air from getting in. Keeping everything sealed tight helps your cooling system work less to keep you cool.
- Use ceiling fans in the rooms that you’re in. Turn them off when you leave the room to save on electricity. And please note – fans cool people, not rooms.
- Draw your shades during the hottest part of the day to help keep out the heat from the sun, which can force your cooling system to work harder.
- Use appliances that create heat during the morning or evening to minimize increases in indoor temperature.
Call us at (720) 547-3647 with any cooling questions or to schedule maintenance for your air conditioner or swamp cooler. And in the meantime – stay cool!