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Although we’re heading towards cooler weather with fall approaching, we thought it would be useful to highlight one last maintenance article regarding your air conditioning unit.
Powering Off the Unit for Cleaning
The first step in AC maintenance is powering off the unit. This can be done by flipping the switch on the thermostat to “off” or unplugging the unit from the power source. Once the unit is powered off, you can begin cleaning it.
AC units need to be cleaned regularly to prevent dirt and debris from build-up. The best way to clean your unit is with a garden hose and a brush attachment. First, remove any leaves or debris that may be around the unit.
Next, use the hose to spray down the unit, being careful not to damage any of the delicate parts. Finally, use the brush attachment to scrub away any remaining dirt or debris.
Cleaning Critical AC Components
After you have cleaned the exterior of the unit, it’s time to move on to the interior. The first thing you will need to do is locate the evaporator coils. These are usually located in the air handler or furnace.
If you can’t find them, consult your AC unit’s manual. Once you have found the evaporator coils, use a brush attachment to clean them. Be sure to remove any dirt or debris that may be clinging to them.
Next, you will need to clean the condenser coils. These are located in the outdoor unit and they help release heat from your home. To clean them, simply remove any debris that may be around them and use a garden hose to spray them down.
If you have a lot of dirt and debris build-up, you may need to use a brush attachment to remove it. Just be careful not to damage the coils.
Checking & Replacing Filters
Another important step in AC maintenance is checking and replacing your filters. Filters help to remove contaminants from the air, so it’s important to keep them clean. Depending on the type of filter you have, you will need to replace it every few months or so.
To check your filter, simply remove it from the unit and hold it up to a light source. If you can’t see through the filter, then it’s time for a new one. Replacing your filter is a quick and easy process that can make a big difference in the quality of your air.
Clearing Debris from Drain Lines
AC units also have drain lines that need to be cleared regularly. These lines help to remove water from the unit, so it’s important to keep them clear of debris. To do this, simply locate the drain line and use a brush attachment to remove any dirt or debris that may be clogging it.
Once you have cleared the line, pour some bleach into it and run water through it until it is clear. This will help to prevent mold and mildew from growing in the line.
Checking for Electrical Issues
The next step in AC maintenance is to check for any electrical issues. This includes checking the wires and connections to make sure they are tight and secure. If you see any damaged or frayed wires, be sure to replace them.
It’s also a good idea to test the unit by turning it on and letting it run for a few minutes. This will help you identify any potential problems so you can fix them before they become an issue.
Monitoring Compressor Short-Cycling
The last step in AC maintenance is to monitor the compressor. Compressor short cycling is when the unit turns on and off more frequently than normal. This can be caused by a variety of things, including a dirty filter or low refrigerant levels.
If you notice your unit is short cycling, be sure to check the filter and see if it needs to be replaced. You should also have a professional check the refrigerant levels and make sure they are where they need to be.
Schedule AC Maintenance Today with Access Heating & Air Conditioning
Now that you know the importance of AC maintenance, it’s time to schedule a service. Access Heating & Air Conditioning offers comprehensive AC maintenance services that will keep your unit running smoothly all year long.
We also offer various other services, including repairs, installations, and replacements. Contact us today to schedule a service or request a free estimate.
208-855-2444