The weather is heating up, and it will be summer before you know it. A good air conditioner is important to keep your family cool during the hottest days of the year. Has your A/C had its annual tune-up yet?
Now is the time to check your air conditioner system to make sure it is operating effectively. The last thing that you want is to be stuck on the hottest day of the year with a broken-down A/C. Here are some tips on how to make sure your unit is in the best shape.
When Should It Be Replaced?
Your air conditioner, if properly maintained, can last for a while. However, older units are far less energy efficient, and a new model can save you more money in the long run. If your air conditioner is over 10 years old, Energy Star recommends replacing it with a new, efficient unit. Many older units no longer operate at maximum efficiency, so they can cost you more money while underperforming. New models have been developed to meet strict regulations, ensuring they use fewer resources while maintaining cool temperatures.
Preventative Maintenance
First and foremost, it’s advised that you change the unit’s filter every month. Electrostatic filters are recommended. Make sure the unit is off when you take the filter out.
In order to ensure it is operating at peak efficiency, your air conditioner system should have a tune-up every year before the cooling season. By performing routine maintenance every year, you can spot any potential problems before it’s too late, and avoid more expensive repairs or a total breakdown.
A proper air conditioner tune-up and annual maintenance will consist of the following steps:
- Clean the outdoor condensing fan: Turn the power off and clean the fan. Make sure that the unit is turned off while doing this, so it’s safe.
- Look for any obstructions: If the fan is making a clicking noise, it may be grating against something. A foreign object could keep the fan from operating at optimal efficiency.
- Check the fan blades: If they’ve been hitting any obstructions, the fan blades may have become bent. If so, replace them with straight blades.
- Clean the drain: Put a cap on the end of the drain, then use a vacuum outside to suck out any dirt. Remove the cap from the end of the drain once you’re done.
For a full annual tune-up, it’s best to consult with a NATE-certified technician.
NATE-Certified Technicians
For best results, a NATE-certified technician can provide an annual tune-up for your air conditioning unit. NATE technicians undergo a rigorous certification process to make sure they can provide the highest level of service and expertise. An experienced, knowledgeable technician can give your air conditioning system a thorough assessment, identify any potential problems and perform maintenance to keep your HVAC unit running smoothly. The HVAC expert will also walk you through every part of the service.
In the event that your unit needs to be replaced, the technician can consult you on energy-efficient air conditioners that will keep your home cool while saving you money. NATE technicians have in-depth knowledge of SEER, the air conditioner efficiency rating system.
For more help, contact us today. Whether it is heat pump service or a new air conditioner system, SMO Energy’s NATE-certified technicians can help you save money on your energy bills while maximizing the comfort of your home.