While we still have a couple of ‘cold months’ ahead, it doesn’t hurt to start preparing yourself and your air conditioner for warmer months. Winter can have devastating effect on outdoor appliance because of the huge variation in temperature and exposure to the elements. Therefore, it is critical to ensure your AC stays in good working condition through the cold months as we gradually move into warmer months. You do not want to be caught unprepared once Spring and Summer finally arrive.
At Chino Heating & Cooling, we understand the importance of a functioning AC system, which is why we took the time to compile this list of simple yet critical steps to follow as you prepare your AC unit for spring and summer.
Carefully Inspect Your HVAC System
After a long winter break, we strongly recommend you start by inspecting your AC unit. While Prescott winters are milder than other areas of the country, it is still essential that you check to see whether your outdoor unit was covered during the time. Running your AC with covers can cause severe damages.
Expel Dirt and Debris
During the inspection, you will most likely find some dirt and debris in your AC unit. This is usually the case after a long winter. We advise you to take a minute and completely expel the dirt before switching over to air conditioning. The condenser coil is responsible for transferring heat, and dirt and debris buildup can make it difficult for your condenser to function properly. Tools for this task include a soft brush, grass shears or pruners, fin comb, spray bottle of coil cleaner, pry bar and a gravel.
Check Your Air Filters
While the U.S. Department of Energy recommends changing your air filter every one to three months, just after winter presents itself as a great time to change your air filters. This is because winter brings more dust than usual, increasing your chances of having buildup in your AC unit. As we mentioned earlier, this dirt can affect the normal functioning of your unit. To make sure your air filter is in a good working state, you should not just clean it with a damp cloth - replacing it is the best route to go. Fortunately, changing the air filter is pretty easy. Simply remove the old filter, and slide in a new one.
Run a Diagnostic on Your Insulation, Return Grills and Supply Vents
The supply vents and return grills are essential components responsible for your unit running smoothly. For a thorough clean, we recommend you run a diagnostic on your supply vents, return grills and even the insulation. A little leak could cost you a fortune if left unchecked. Check for leaks and clean out any dirt, dust, or pet hair that might have accumulated over the winter. Tools you may need include a moisture meter, tape, screwdriver, and cleaning brush.
Give it a Test Run
The last phase of preparing your AC unit for spring and summer involves testing its working condition. Now, you are done with cleaning out all the dirt and debris, changing the air filter, and securing the leaks. To be sure you are fully prepared for a hot day, you will need a trial run. Simply turn on your HVAC system and allow it to run for 30 minutes to an hour. During this time, you can tell if it is working perfectly or not. If it isn’t, then consider enlisting the help of a professional cooling and heating technician.
Having served greater Prescott, Prescott Valley, and Chino Valley for about four decades, Chino Heating & Cooling is well-known for providing year-round comfort for all it’s customers. Please visit our website to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
留言