Summer is here and that means cookouts, freshly-grilled burgers, and the refreshing feeling of walking into an air-conditioned home on a hot summer’s day. There’s nothing quite like it.
Want to Experience That Feeling?
There’s nothing better than the comfort of a completely climate-controlled home. If you’re thinking that it’s time to get a central air conditioner, count on the pros at The WireNut! We’re known as some of the best electricians in Colorado Springs, and we’re also some of the best air conditioning installers, too!
Learn more about our air conditioning services.
By now you’ve probably got your air conditioner going or are thinking about turning it on right away. While a central air conditioner is usually a “set and forget” appliance, all air conditioners benefit from a bit of seasonal maintenance. In addition to helping prevent breakdowns, seasonal maintenance also increases the air conditioner’s efficiency.
Take a bit of time to check the items below. If your air conditioner could use a professional’s touch, check out our
air conditioner tune-ups.
Air Conditioner Maintenance Items to Check Annually
Before performing any of the items below, disconnect power to the air conditioner (either at the outdoor shutoff or at the electrical panel).
- Clean the condenser fins – Using a shop-vac, use a soft-tipped brush to clean the debris from the condenser fins. This may require you to unfasten the exterior shell and lift it away in order to gain access to the fins.Be mindful not to damage the condenser fins, as they are easily bent.
- Clean the shell and control panel area – Over time, grass clippings, dust, and other debris accumulate in and around the air conditioner. Clean these areas prior to turning the air conditioner back on.
- Clean or replace filters – Clogged filters can have a significant impact on air conditioner performance. Be sure to clean or replace these filters regularly. Filters can generally be found within the ducting system from the air conditioner to the furnace. Depending on your model of air conditioner, you may need to clean or outright replace these filters (consult your owner’s manual).
- Check condensate drains – Sometimes these drain lines can get clogged. Using a stiff wire, pass it through the drain to ensure the drain is free of obstructions.
Note: Restarting Your Compressor
Different air conditioner compressors have different start-up procedures. These procedures should always be followed to ensure the safe operation of the compressor. Consult your owner’s manual for specific information on the appropriate start-up procedure for your compressor.
Maintenance Items to Check Monthly
- Inspect the lines – Check for signs of damage, wear, or rust. Ensure that all connectors remain snug and that the line is free of kinks and damage.
- Inspect the seal between the outside and inside – Check the weather stripping and seal surrounding the connection point outside. In addition to keeping your home properly sealed and insulated, this also ensures that bugs don’t use it as a spot to sneak inside.
- Keep the surrounding area clean and free of debris – Clear at least 2 feet around the air conditioner compressor. Keep any grass neatly trimmed and do not grow any plants or trees in this area.
The Professional’s Touch
During our air conditioning tune-ups we perform a lot of other important maintenance, including:
- Verifying the amount and integrity of refrigerant, topping up/replacing as needed
- Test for refrigerant leaks
- Inspecting ducting and lines for leaks or damage
- Measure airflow through the evaporator coil
- Oil motors and belts, check for proper alignment and current wear
- Ensure that all connections and systems are operating properly; verify the furnace and air conditioner cannot operate concurrently
Give us a call to handle your air conditioner repairs, maintenance, and other HVAC items. We are located in both Denver and Colorado Springs.
