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With spring in full bloom, it’s time to think about AC summer maintenance. Prioritizing a tune-up for your AC before using it can ensure it’s in good working condition when you need it. Rick’s Heating and Cooling offers some advice on preparing your AC for another hot, muggy Ohio summer.
Check & Replace Air Filters
Your AC’s air filter is the first thing you can check when performing summer AC maintenance. Filters fill up with debris such as dust and pollen, and a clogged filter can cause your AC system to work harder, thus using more energy.
Most air filters are located next to your AC system’s air handler. If able, remove the old one and replace it with a new one of the same size. During the summer, it is recommended to change the filter every three months or so to maintain clean air.
Clean the Outdoor Condenser Unit
Another area to clean is your AC’s condenser unit. The condenser unit pressurizes refrigerant and sends it to the condenser coils in the outside unit. Then, the condenser fan blows air over the coils to release heat energy to the outside.
If these are clogged or dirty, the refrigerant has a harder time releasing the heat. This means your AC will take longer to cool your home, and your energy bills will increase.
To safely clean the condenser unit:
- Turn off the thermostat and the AC unit
- Carefully vacuum the condenser fans with a soft brush attachment
- Gently spray the unit with a hose to clean off loose debris
- Spray the outside of the unit with coil cleaner and wait 10 to 15 minutes
- Rinse away foam from the coil cleaner
Inspect & Clean Air Vents and Ducts
Your air vents are how your AC gets and returns air to your home. Make sure all your vents are clear from obstructions, are open, and are clean. If your vents are closed or obstructed, it will cause your AC unit to work harder to cool the entire home, which can cause utility bills to rise.
Test the Thermostat
You’ll want to make sure your thermostat will turn your AC on once summer comes. You can always turn on the AC and make sure it cools your home. Another way is to buy an infrared thermometer and use it to test the AC’s ability to cool your home to your desired temperature.
You can also check for any error warnings or problems with the thermostat. Some problems you might see include inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive displays, or incorrect settings. Some of these can be fixed by restarting the thermostat, but if you can’t correct the issue, consider hiring a professional.
Schedule a Professional AC Tune-Up
Even if you performed all of these tune-up tasks for your AC, it’s still a good idea to hire a professional. Professional HVAC techs can see things you might miss, get into the components for deep cleaning and repairs, and ensure all components are primed and ready for summer. We recommend an annual AC tune-up just before spring to:
- Check filters
- Check refrigerant levels
- Clean condensate drain lines
- Check condenser and evaporator coils
- Check ductwork for leaks
- Inspect the thermostat
- Lubricate moving parts
- Tightening loose electrical connections
- Ensure proper functionality
Consider Upgrading Your System
If your AC unit is over 15 to 20 years old and just isn’t cooling like it should, consider AC replacement services. Upgrading to a new AC unit can provide lower utility bills, better and more efficient cooling, and more peace of mind that the AC will work on the hottest days.
Adding dehumidifiers to your home can also help regulate temperature, reduce mold and mildew growth, and improve indoor air quality during the summer. Upgrade to a programmable thermostat to make AC temperature control much easier.
Why Choose Us?
When you need the best AC services in Cincinnati, OH, contact Rick’s Heating & Cooling. Our technicians are highly trained to provide quality services, 24/7 emergency services, and free estimates on all replacement quotes.
Need help getting your AC ready for summer? We do that, too. Our tune-ups and Maintenance Plan will ensure your AC is ready for whatever summer temperatures the Ohio sun throws at us.
Schedule your AC tune-up today with Rick’s Heating & Cooling.
