CALL US 850-385-3774

Ensuring Your A/C Unit is Summertime Ready: A Comprehensive Guide

As the mercury starts to rise and summer quickly approaches, many of us will soon be relying on our air conditioning (A/C) units to keep our homes cool and comfortable. Preparing your A/C unit for the summertime is essential to ensure that it runs efficiently throughout the hottest months of the year, minimizing the risk of breakdowns and high energy costs. This blog post provides a step-by-step guide to help you get your A/C unit summer-ready. For questions or to schedule your HVAC inspection before summer hits, contact Tony Kelly Heating & Air Conditioning today!

The Importance of Prepping Your HVAC System for Summertime

As summer approaches with its blazing heat, your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system will become an absolute necessity. But before you start cranking up the A/C, it’s crucial to ensure that your HVAC system is adequately prepared. Here’s why prepping your HVAC system for summertime is so essential.

Prepping your HVAC system for summertime is a proactive measure that brings several benefits, including maintaining efficiency, preventing breakdowns, improving indoor air quality, and saving money. With the high temperatures that summer brings, ensuring your HVAC system is ready to handle the heat can provide peace of mind and a more comfortable home environment.

How to Prep Your A/C Unit for Summer

1. Clear Around the Outdoor Condenser Unit

Your A/C unit’s outdoor condenser requires adequate airflow to function optimally. Start by clearing any leaves, grass, or other debris that may have accumulated around the unit during the fall and winter months. Also, ensure that there are no obstructions, such as plants or furniture, within two feet of the unit.

2. Clean the Condenser Coils and Fins

Over time, the condenser coils and fins can become dirty, which hampers the unit’s efficiency. Using a garden hose, gently spray the coils and fins from the inside out to remove any dirt or grime. Be careful not to damage the delicate fins with a high-pressure water stream. Commercial coil cleaners are also available and can provide a more thorough cleaning.

3. Check the Refrigerant Levels

Incorrect refrigerant levels can lead to your A/C unit working harder than necessary, resulting in increased wear and tear and higher energy costs. Most units have a sight glass on the refrigerant line where you can check the level. If it appears low or if bubbles are visible, contact a professional to check the refrigerant level and address potential leaks.

4. Clean or Replace the Air Filters

Cleaning or replacing the air filters is one of the most crucial steps in preparing your A/C unit for summer. Dirty air filters restrict airflow, forcing the unit to work harder, reducing its efficiency, and increasing energy costs. Depending on the type of filter your unit uses, you may need to replace it every 1-3 months during high use periods.

5. Check the Ductwork for Leaks

Leaky ductwork can significantly reduce your A/C unit’s efficiency. Check your home’s ductwork for any signs of damage or leaks. If you suspect a leak, a professional HVAC technician can perform a pressure test and repair any issues.

6. Test the Unit

After performing these maintenance tasks, turn on your A/C unit to ensure it’s working properly. It should start without any issues, and cool air should begin to flow from the vents. If you notice any unusual noises or if the unit doesn’t cool your home sufficiently, contact a professional.

7. Schedule a Professional Inspection

Although DIY maintenance can go a long way in preparing your A/C unit for summer, scheduling a professional inspection is highly recommended. A certified HVAC technician can identify potential issues that may not be apparent to the untrained eye, helping to prevent future breakdowns and costly repairs.

By following these steps, you can help ensure that your A/C unit is ready to keep your home cool and comfortable throughout the summer months. Remember, regular maintenance not only enhances the efficiency of your unit but also extends its lifespan, saving you money in the long run. So don’t wait until the heatwave hits — get your A/C unit summer-ready today!

About Tony Kelly Heating & Air Conditioning

Established in 2001, Tony Kelly HVAC is a proud family-run enterprise. We’re deeply committed to ensuring the happiness of our customers and enhancing the comfort of their homes. Our conviction lies in delivering the finest HVAC services throughout the Tallahassee area. As pioneers in the HVAC field, we’re devoted to furnishing services of the highest quality with a foundation of honesty, consistently aiming to exceed customer satisfaction.

Choosing Tony Kelly Heating & Air Conditioning means collaborating with professionals who embody friendliness, efficiency, and unwavering dedication to their clients. Since our inception in 2000, we’ve built an outstanding reputation among our clientele in Tallahassee and the surrounding regions. Our goal is to forge enduring connections with our customers, ensuring total satisfaction with every heating and air conditioning service we deliver. With our customer satisfaction guarantee, we pledge to leave you completely content with our service every time. To discover more about how Tony Kelly Heating & Air Conditioning can be of service to you, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 850-792-4488 via call or text. 

 

published on Saturday, April 8th, 2023