Late spring and summer are your air conditioner’s time to shine. After months of lying dormant, many ACs have heavy buildups of algae and mold in their condensate drains, dirty coils, and other maintenance-related issues. Getting your AC summer-ready will ensure reliable and efficient performance when you need it most. It can also lead to lower home energy bills and a healthier indoor air quality (IAQ). Check out these spring maintenance tips for ACs every homeowner should know.
Inspect and Replace the Air Filter
Air conditioners cool homes by pulling warm air in, passing it over refrigerant-filled coils, extracting its heat and humidity, and distributing it. All air that enters air conditioners passes through their filters. Heavy filter debris inhibits airflow. It can also cause problems like icing, overheating, and short cycling.
Locate your air filter in your HVAC system’s return vent or grille. For some central cooling systems and all ductless mini-split systems, air filters are housed in air handlers instead. Remove the air filter and hold it up to the overhead light. When light can no longer pass through the lint-like buildup on a filter’s mesh, air cannot move through it, either. Replace your air filter as needed.
For ductless mini-split systems, homeowners should inspect and clean the air filters every two to four weeks and replace them every six to 12 months as recommended by manufacturers. For central ACs with standard air filters, homeowners should inspect these components monthly and swap them out every 30 to 90 days.
Clean All Registers, Vents, and Grilles
Remove built-up debris on all air registers, vents, and grilles throughout your home. You can do this with a lightly dampened microfiber towel. If you spot thick accumulations of dust and other debris behind vent covers, unscrew them and carefully vacuum behind them.
Clear the Area Around the Condenser
Air conditioners release heat at their outdoor condenser units. To prevent overheating and maintain optimum airflow, make sure that your condenser’s perimeter remains clear. For both ductless and ducted cooling systems, outdoor condensers need at least 18 to 24 inches of clearance on all sides.
Remove all dry brush, leaves, and other windblown debris. Cut back fast-growing tree branches, grass, and weeds. Revisit this area throughout the cooling season to maintain adequate clearance.
Schedule Professional AC Maintenance
Performing regular filter changes and keeping the condenser’s perimeter clear are both key parts of your ongoing AC maintenance as a homeowner. However, there are many essential maintenance tasks that are best handled by licensed HVAC companies. All ACs need professional maintenance service at least once each year, and spring is the best time for it. Staying on top of professional tune-up service will keep your AC manufacturer’s warranty intact and extend the life span of your cooling equipment.
During professional maintenance service, HVAC technicians:
- Test and calibrate thermostats
- Clean and disinfect condensate drains
- Clean evaporator and condenser coils
- Measure refrigerant levels and check for leaks
- Test and optimize airflow
- Lubricate moving parts
- Replace worn bearings
Start spring off right by inspecting and replacing your HVAC air filter and creating adequate clearance around your condenser. For the best cooling system performance, always schedule professional AC maintenance right before the cooling season arrives. Call our team at Integrity Home Solutions to book AC maintenance services in the Tampa Bay, FL area.