When Is A Good Time For A HVAC Preventive Maintenance Request?
The onset of summer is almost here, with its blistering hot weather that we are so accustomed to in the Tri-Cities. You certainly don’t want to be in the position of turning on your AC unit only to discover that it malfunctions. You also spent plenty of money on having your HVAC installed. You want to preserve this important energy system investment by having regular maintenance performed on your AC unit. It is highly recommended that you have preventive maintenance done on our HVAC unit shortly before summer and again as it gets closer to winter.
These preventive maintenance procedures are designed to ensure your air conditioner is optimized for the best performance throughout the hot season.
5 Simple Ways to Prepare Your AC Unit for Summer
Clean or Replace Filters
You should replace or clean the furnace or air-handler filters before the summer, and whenever they appear clogged. You should have this done twice a year. If you neglect your filters, airflow will be restricted and this will reduce the efficiency of your air conditioning unit. That can result in higher energy bills and your HVAC unit will have to work harder, shortening its life span.
Clean the Air Conditioner’s Condenser Coils
We suggest you clean your air conditioning unit’s condenser coils and free the fan of debris. You will normally find the AC condenser unit outdoors. Clear away leaves, grass clippings, or plants from the condenser around the outside of your AC unit. Try using a soft cloth or low-pressure canned air to clean the coils of any pollen or mold spores that might have developed. Make sure you push dust and contaminants out the way they came in, and not the opposite direction.
Additionally, be sure to check inside the box. Air moves across radiator-style condenser coils. Examine this area to make sure no debris has clogged the coils. If your coils are obstructed, the coils should be cleaned thoroughly so your condenser unit works at optimal efficiency.
Check the Coolant Lines
It is helpful to know that refrigerant tubes or pipes run from your air conditioner’s evaporator on the air handler to the condenser outside. These lines are typically covered with foam coolant line insulation. Examine this insulation to see if it is frayed or if any insulation is missing. If it is missing, replace it with new foam insulation sleeves, or wrap the lines in a spiral fashion with foam insulation tape. By having the refrigerant lines completely covered with foam insulation, you avoid energy loss and potentially higher energy bills.
Check Ductwork
For those of you who are using a forced-air heating system, you are probably sharing ductwork with your central air. If you have not experienced problems with the airflow from your furnace, then your ductwork is likely in good condition. However, it is always smart to perform a quick assessment to ensure there are no holes or chinks in the ductwork, while also checking to see if every seal is intact. This measure takes little time and could give you peace of mind.
Clear all debris and leaves out of the base of the condenser. If your air conditioning unit has a drain, make sure the drain is completely clear. Also, clean the blower’s fan blades while using a vacuum or a rag. Be sure to get rid of any excess water inside the unit. After everything is cleared and cleaned, reassemble the condenser.
Remember, performing regular, preventive maintenance on your system will ensure your HVAC is in good working condition year-round. We recommend your look to qualified and licensed HVAC technicians – like the ones at Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning – to carry out these important HVAC tune-ups.
Look to Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning for Expert Maintenance of Your HVAC
Look to the HVAC experts at Apollo to ensure your energy system is in excellent condition and operating at optimal efficiency so you can stay cool and comfortable this summer. Our experienced team of highly trained technicians will work with you and exceed your expectations during HVAC repairs and AC unit replacements.
Apollo field technicians will work closely with you in deciding what HVAC system is the best, and tailor it to fit your unique needs and preferences! We are committed to delivering premium quality HVAC service, maintenance, products, and documentation in Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, and beyond!
Learn more by contacting Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning! Call us at (509) 396-COLD (2653).
