If there’s one thing you don’t want on a hot summer day in Georgia, it’s for your air conditioning to go out. You could be without air conditioning for a few hours while an AC company repairs or replaces your unit. A few hours could seem like a few days when you’re fighting the heat. Fortunately, there are things you can do to keep your AC running smoothly this summer.
The Filter
One simple way to keep your air conditioning unit working smoothly is to check and change your filter. Dust and debris collect on the filter, and if not changed, the filter will become clogged and can cause your AC unit to freeze up. This could result in costly repairs. You should change the filter every 30 to 60 days. If you or someone in your family has allergies, you may need to upgrade your filter and change it more often.
Air Vents
You need to have clear paths for your air vents to help your unit’s efficiency. Keep furniture at least 2 feet from your air vents. You need 6 feet of space in front of the air exchangers, the units that hold your air filters. Periodically, take the covers off the air vents and vacuum off the dust. Wash the covers before putting them back on.
The Thermostat
Save energy by putting your thermostat on a summer schedule. When you’re not at home, set your thermostat to turn off and to start cooling an hour before you return home. Set the thermostat so it’s higher during the nighttime than during the hottest part of the day. You can get a thermostat connected to Wi-Fi, so you can adjust your settings from your smartphone.
The Condenser
If you have an AC unit with a condenser outside, place the condenser in the shade if possible. You can plant some shrubs around the AC unit. The condenser coil is where the heat from your house is dispersed into the outside air. Keeping the condenser cool will make your unit work more efficiently. Make sure to clean any plants, twigs, or other debris from the AC unit. Make sure plants and shrubs are at least 2 feet from the unit.
The Drainpipe
The drainpipe of your unit may become clogged with mold or algae, so you need to clean the pipe periodically — for example, once a month. This is done by passing a wire brush through the pipe. After cleaning the pipe, check the fins of the AC unit. Purchase a fin comb at a hardware or home improvement store. Combing the fins will restore their shape, allowing them to release heat properly.
Maintenance
Have an AC company perform annual maintenance of your AC unit. A service technician can check to see if the coils are clean and the fans are blowing. The professional will check the electrical components of your system and check your wires for wear and tear or loose connections. He or she will check your hoses and fittings for cracks or corrosion.
AC maintenance in Snellville, GA, can catch small problems before they become major ones. This can save you money and prevent you and your family from being without AC on a hot summer day. Call Triad Mechanical at (770) 682-0075 for all your air conditioning maintenance, repair, and installation needs. We’ll make sure you stay cool this summer!