Now that the winter we thought would never end is finally over, we can start moaning about spring cleaning and maintenance! If it isn’t one thing, it’s another, right?
Just like you would give your lawn mower a once-over before you fired it up for the season, your air conditioner needs attention before you put it to work. After all, it’s been on a long hiatus as well.
So before the weather gets too warm, do these few simple tasks to make sure your AC is in tiptop condition. You don’t want a costly breakdown when the summer heats up, do you?
Replace Your Filters
The first thing you want to do is to swap out your filter, so you start the season with a fresh, clean breeze. Clogged, dirty filters put a lot of pressure on your HVAC unit, and may even cause the condenser to freeze. And don’t forget to change your filter regularly. During months of heavy use, it should be changed every four weeks or so, to keep air flowing freely.
Check Out Your Ducts
Ducts are the unsung heroes of the HVAC system. Without them, conditioned air wouldn’t get where it needs to go. But ductwork is often overlooked simply because it is so low-maintenance. Low maintenance doesn’t mean no maintenance, though. You’ll want to get your ducts professionally cleaned every three or four years, since it tends to collect dirt and dust.
Clean The Outside Unit
Because of its location, the outside unit is going to attract the most trouble. So you’ll want to check it over carefully and clean it thoroughly before you fire up the AC for the first time this year. Cut back any encroaching grass or bushes, and carefully vacuum or blow out the interior if any leaves have blown in.
Test Your Air Conditioner
The time to try out your AC is not the first sweltering days of May. Test it right after you’re finished cleaning it, to be sure everything is in working order. If it doesn’t kick right in, go directly to step five:
Schedule Your Yearly HVAC Tune-up
Well, it has to get done sometime, and it might as well be now. Annual inspections by a qualified technician can prolong the life of your HVAC system by catching problems early. Give yourself the gift of peace of mind and a trouble-free summer on the Outer Banks by doing this early.
To have a certified HVAC technician drop by, call Air Handlers OBX today, at 252-491-8637
