Your air conditioning unit puts in a lot of work over the summer months in the Phoenix, AZ metro area. When the weather cools off, it gets a break. During this down time, there are things you can do to as the season changes, and into the winter months, to make sure your air conditioner is ready to go when the warm weather returns.
Keeping up with the maintenance of your air conditioner can prolong the life of the unit while also maximizing its performance and efficiency. Here at ACE Home Services, we have put together this guide to help you maintain your air conditioner over the offseason. If you have any additional questions or concerns about your air conditioning unit, contact us today!
Outdoor Units
Central air conditioning system are often powered by units that are outside the home, which means they are exposed to the elements. These types of units require some special attention to keep them clean and running at optimal efficiency in the warmer months when you need your AC the most. The HVAC professionals at ACE Home services are just a phone call away at 602-517-0221.
Change or clean your air filters
A dirty air conditioner filter lowers your air conditioner’s efficiency. A dirty or clogged filter keeps air from flowing freely through it, which means your unit has to work harder to cool your home. This can lead to higher and more expensive energy bills.
To keep your AC system running at peak efficiency during the warmer months, you should be changing or cleaning your filter every month. In the cooler months, when you may be using your AC less often, it’s easy to forget this quick chore. But your outside AC filter does need to be changed one more time so your unit is ready to go when temperatures start to rise again.
Replacement filters for your air conditioning unit are available at most hardware stores, but you will need to make sure you have the right kind for optimum efficiency. Give ACE Home Services a call at 602-517-0221 to have a professional assess your unit.
Have your ducts cleaned
The winter season is a great time to consider having your AC ducts professionally cleaned. When your AC is running, the cool air travels through a system of ducts to reach the various areas of your home. If the ducts are clogged with dust, dirt, or debris, they can’t deliver the cooled air as efficiently, so you are not only less comfortable, but your AC system is using more energy. Call the pros at ACE Home Services at 602-517-0221 to have your ducts cleaned before the weather starts getting warm again.
Remove debris around your AC unit
Taking care of your outdoor AC includes cleaning up debris or items outside and around the unit that can make it less efficient. Keep in mind that shrubs, bushes, tall grasses, and hanging branches are also an issue. Clear them away if they have grown too close. Try to keep at least 24 inches of clear space around the air conditioning unit.
Cover your AC Unit
Covering your outdoor AC unit in the winter will keep it protected from the elements and the weather and keep debris and dirt from collecting. All-weather covers for outdoor air conditioners can be found at local hardware stores.
Consider an AC Maintenance Appointment
A scheduled air conditioner maintenance tune-up in the spring is a good idea. Regular inspection for necessary repairs, cleaning of critical parts, and servicing of components is a great way to ensure your AC works and keeps you cool all summer. Call or contact ACE Home Services to schedule an appointment today.
Window Units
If your home does not have central air, you most likely use window units. The cooler part of the year is a great time to make sure these are in good working order so they’ll be ready to go when the temps start to rise again.
Clean or replace your filter
Like outdoor units, window AC appliance also use filters, and it’s important to clean or replace these. A clogged or blocked filter system work a lot harder, which, of course, causes your air conditioner to use more energy and cost you more money to run. Your product manual will have information about appropriate filters for your unit. Most are easily removed and can be cleaned with warm water and mild detergent.
If your window units have filters that are old or damaged, you may need to replace them. ACE Home Services can advise you about the right kinds of filters to look for, and can assist in replacing them. Give us a call at 602-517-0221.
Clean the evaporator and condenser coils
The evaporator coils on your window air conditioning unit collect contaminants, dust, and dirt over time. This not only affects your indoor air quality, but it also lowers the unit’s performance. Visibly inspecting the coils for dust and dirt once a year will help to ensure better performance and help your window AC unit last longer. The condenser coils on back of unit should be inspected and cleaned as well.
You can clean the coils yourself using your vacuum clean and brush attachment. However, it’s a good idea to have your AC’s coils and condenser inspected by a professional, who can make sure everything is clear and working properly. Call ACE Home Services at 602-517-0221 today to make sure you’re ready for summer.
Seal your window frames
The seals around the window and the unit should be sealed. If you are keeping your unit in the window through the cold months, ensure the seals are tight and not leaking. Small leaks in the seals can cause you to lose heat in the winter or cool air in the summer when you are running the air conditioning unit.
Consider an AC Maintenance Appointment
Whether you have central air or window units, a scheduled air conditioner maintenance tune-up in the spring is a good idea. Regular inspection for necessary repairs, cleaning of critical parts, and servicing of components is a great way to ensure your AC works and keeps you cool all summer. Call or contact ACE Home Services to schedule an appointment today.
