As the hot Texas and Oklahoma summers approach, ensuring your air conditioning (AC) system is ready to keep you cool and comfortable is essential. After months of inactivity during the cooler seasons, your air conditioner may need some attention before it’s called into action. At Advanced Cooling, we’ve been providing expert heating and cooling solutions since 2001, helping residents and businesses stay comfortable year-round. In this article, we’ll outline essential repair checks you should perform to ensure your air conditioner is ready for the summer heat.
Inspect and Replace the Air Filter
One of the simplest yet most important checks you can do for your AC system is inspecting and replacing the air filter. The air filter traps dust, dirt, and debris from entering your AC system and circulating throughout your home. Over time, filters can become clogged and obstruct airflow, causing your system to work harder and use more energy.
Why it matters: A clogged air filter can strain your air conditioner, leading to reduced efficiency and potential overheating. It can also affect the quality of your indoor air by allowing allergens and dust to circulate.
Action to take: Inspect your filter for dirt and debris. If it looks dirty or clogged, replace it with a new one. In general, air filters should be replaced every 1–3 months, depending on usage and the type of filter.
Clean the Coils and Condenser Unit
The evaporator and condenser coils are critical components of your air conditioning system. The evaporator coil, located inside the air handler, absorbs heat, while the condenser coil, located outside the unit, releases that heat into the environment. Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate on these coils, reducing their efficiency.
Why it matters: Dirty coils can lead to poor cooling performance and increased energy consumption. If left unchecked, dirt buildup can even cause the coils to freeze, leading to system breakdowns.
Action to take: Clean both the evaporator and condenser coils. You can do this yourself if you’re comfortable with it or hire a professional technician to clean the coils during a routine maintenance check.
Check and Clean the Condensate Drain
Your AC system works by removing excess moisture from the air, which is then directed outside through the condensate drain. If this drain becomes clogged, water can back up into your system, causing damage to the internal components or even leading to water damage in your home.
Why it matters: A clogged condensate drain can lead to water damage, mold growth, and reduced system efficiency. In some cases, a backed-up drain can trigger an automatic shut-off of your system to prevent water damage.
Action to take: Check the condensate drain for any signs of blockage, like mold or algae growth. If you notice a clog, use a wet/dry vacuum to clear the line. You can also pour a small amount of bleach or vinegar down the drain to disinfect it.
Examine the Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your air conditioner. It is responsible for absorbing and releasing heat as the AC operates. Low refrigerant levels can cause your AC to blow warm air and struggle to cool your space. More seriously, low refrigerant can indicate a leak, which can lead to further damage if not addressed promptly.
Why it matters: An AC unit with low refrigerant will not cool effectively, and continued operation with low levels can damage the compressor, which is one of the most expensive components of the system to replace.
Action to take: If you notice that your AC is blowing warm air or is unable to reach the desired temperature, have a professional technician check the refrigerant levels and inspect for leaks. It’s illegal to recharge refrigerant without the proper certification, so always rely on a licensed technician for this task.
Inspect the Ductwork for Leaks
Leaky or damaged ductwork can significantly reduce the efficiency of your air conditioning system. Leaks in the ducts allow cooled air to escape, which means your system has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. This can lead to higher energy bills and uneven cooling in your home or business.
Why it matters: Leaky ducts can cause a drop in your system’s performance, wasting energy and leading to uncomfortable indoor temperatures. Over time, undetected leaks can also contribute to poor indoor air quality, as they may allow dust and allergens to enter the air.
Action to take: Inspect the visible ductwork for any gaps, cracks, or signs of wear. If you suspect a leak in the ducts, consider hiring a professional to perform a thorough inspection. They may use tools like a blower door test or smoke test to locate hidden leaks.
Test the Thermostat
Your thermostat is the command center of your HVAC system. If it’s not functioning properly, your air conditioner may not be cooling as efficiently as it should. A malfunctioning thermostat can cause the system to run too frequently or not enough, leading to discomfort and higher energy costs.
Why it matters: An inaccurate or unresponsive thermostat can lead to inconsistent temperatures or an overworked AC system.
Action to take: Test the thermostat by adjusting the temperature and observing if the system responds appropriately. If the thermostat is digital, check the batteries. If it’s mechanical, ensure the settings are accurate and check for any visible signs of damage. If you notice any discrepancies, consider replacing the thermostat or having it professionally calibrated.
Lubricate Moving Parts
AC systems have many moving parts, including fans and motors, that can wear out over time. Proper lubrication ensures these parts run smoothly and reduces the risk of unnecessary breakdowns.
Why it matters: Lack of lubrication can lead to increased friction, which can cause parts to wear out more quickly, leading to costly repairs or system failure.
Action to take: Check the fan and motor components for signs of wear and ensure they are properly lubricated. This is another task best left to a professional technician, as they will have the right tools and knowledge to lubricate parts safely.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
While many of the above checks can be performed on your own, it’s always a good idea to schedule a professional maintenance visit before the summer season. A qualified HVAC technician can perform a comprehensive inspection, diagnose any potential issues, and make necessary repairs to ensure your system is running optimally.
Why it matters: Professional technicians have the expertise and tools to catch potential problems early, often preventing costly breakdowns and extending the life of your AC system.
Action to take: Call Advanced Cooling to schedule a preventative maintenance check. We’ll thoroughly inspect and service your system, ensuring that it’s in top shape for the hot summer months ahead.
Conclusion
Preparing your air conditioner for summer is crucial to ensure that it operates efficiently and effectively when you need it most. Regular maintenance and early detection of potential issues can save you money on costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your system. At Advanced Cooling, we offer professional heating and cooling solutions for both residential and commercial clients throughout Texas and Oklahoma. Since 2001, we’ve built our reputation on providing friendly, affordable, and reliable service. Don’t wait until your AC breaks down—contact us today to schedule your pre-summer AC check and enjoy peace of mind all season long.
Advanced Cooling is the premier choice for HVAC services in Texas and Oklahoma. With a team of highly trained and certified technicians, we have the expertise to handle all of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning needs. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is unmatched, and we always go above and beyond to ensure that your experience with us is positive. We use only the highest quality parts and equipment to ensure that your HVAC system is running at peak performance. Plus, we offer competitive pricing and flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Choose Advanced Cooling for all of your HVAC needs in Texas and Oklahoma.