Is Your AC Ready For Summer?

Summer is about to arrive, and it is advised to prepare your A/C before you start using it for the cooling season. The last thing you want is your AC stopping to work on the first day of a scorching hot summer. 

Here are a few steps to follow to ensure your AC is ready for summer. 

1. Clean or replace AC filters

First things first, check out your AC filter. This step is arguably the most important, but the easiest too, as most ACs come with a replaceable or reusable filter in the air-handler cabinet. Some systems might also have air filters in the return air-registers in the house. If you have not replaced your AC filters for the last two years, do so. If not, clean them; however, some filters might require a replacement before two years. You can consult air conditioning Cherry Hill NJ to check if cleaning is fine or a replacement is required.

2. Clean condenser coils

The big metal box with grill-like sides is the condenser unit of a central air conditioner. There is a fan with blades behind the grilles, which is protected by a condenser tarp to prevent the accumulation of debris. However, these condenser covers do not provide 100 percent protection, and some of the coils might get clogged. 

Clogging can cut down the efficiency of the condenser; thus, be sure to clean these coils at the beginning of the cooling season. For cleaning the coils, remove the top and side panels from the condenser, and use a refrigerator coil brush to remove the accumulated dust and debris. 

If the debris is stuck or not easily removed with a brush, spray some AC coil cleaner from the inside. However, this step can be risky and require Jersey City air conditioning repair services. 

3. Clear debris from the condenser 

Scoop leaves and debris out of condenser base, and if there is a drain, make sure it is clear. Use a rag and vacuum to clean the blower's fan blades. If the motor has any oil pores, put a few drops of Wd-40 or lightweight oil into the ports of lubrication. Now, tighten any loose mounting boults, and mop up excess water inside the unit. Reassemble the condenser and remove any weeds and vines that may obstruct the airflow through the condenser. If the debris is too stubborn to get rid of, air conditioning repair Delaware services. 

4. Check coolant lines

The refrigerant tubes running from the evaporator to the condenser are covered with foam coolant line insulation to increase energy efficiency. Check for areas where insulation is missing, and replace it with foam insulation sleeves. 

5. Test the AC unit 

Allow the unit to dry for a couple of hours. Now, turn off the thermostat, power on the power at the disconnected box and main panel, and switch on the thermostat to cool. 

Conclusion 

Follow the above steps to quickly prepare your AC for the upcoming cooling season. If the AC is still not running properly, consult AC repair Voorhees services.