Getting Your Air Conditioner Ready for Summer: What You Need to Know

The favorable temperatures of spring are here — and before we know it, the dog days of summer will be, too! Whether it struggles to pump out cool air or refuses to kick on at all, the last thing you want to encounter on the first hot day of summer is a malfunctioning air conditioner. From replacing filters to performing a few minor checks, there are several steps you can take now that will get your air conditioner ready for the summer. As one of the leading providers of air conditioning services in Fayetteville, NC, we’ve put together this guide on what to keep in mind when preparing your air conditioner for the warmer days ahead. We have solid local reviews from residents in Cumberland County, be sure to read them and consider working with us.

Clean or Replace Filters

Among the most straightforward yet essential steps is cleaning or replacing your filters. Most systems have a replaceable or reusable filter in the air-handler cabinet — typically located inside of or close to the air inlet side. Some systems employ air filters in the return-air registers inside the home. Clean or replace all return-air, furnace, or air-handler filters at least twice a year or whenever they begin to look clogged with dust. By neglecting this step, airflow will be restricted, efficiency will take a hit, and your indoor air quality will be impacted.

Clean Your AC’s Condenser Coils

Your AC unit’s outdoor condenser coil has a tough job in warm weather. It takes the concentrated heat taken from within your home and dumps it into the hot, outdoor air. To move the collected heat in this way, your condenser coil has to stir lots and lots of air. If it’s dirty or if plants or other outdoor objects are too close to the unit, the fan in the outdoor coil cannot produce the amount of air needed for peak performance. This ultimately raises the cost of electricity and shortens the lifespan of your outdoor condensing unit.

To begin cleaning the condenser coils, remove the side and top panels from the condenser unit and lift off the top. Using a refrigerator coil brush or a soft brush on a vacuum, clean the coils from the outside of the unit; then, vacuum coils from the inside. Be careful not to bend delicate fins or damage the coils.

Clean and Clear Debris

Scoop leaves and debris from the base of the condenser and, if there’s a drain, ensure it is clear as well. Clean the blower’s fan blades with a vacuum or rag and clean up any excess water inside the unit. When everything is cleared and cleaned, reassemble the condenser.

Check Coolant Lines

Refrigerant tubes run from your AC’s evaporator on the air handler to the outside condenser. These lines or pipes are typically covered with a foam coolant line insulation; check to see if there are areas wherein this insulation is frayed or missing. If these sorts of areas are present, replace it with new foam insulation sleeves.

Contact the Pros to Get Your Air Conditioning System Ready for Summer

When you need it the most, you don’t want your central air conditioning unit to work harder than it has to. While there are measures you can take on your own, it pays to partner with HVAC service technicians to handle everything for you. Whether you need maintenance, suspect you need repairs, or are considering full-on replacement, turn to no other than our team! For more information about our full suite of offerings — including HVAC maintenance plans in Fayetteville, NC — contact us today.