Spring has finally arrived in the Twin Cities, and after a long, cold winter, residents are out in full force taking care of their spring to-do lists. A comprehensive A/C tune-up by a qualified HVAC professional should be at the top of that list. Annual preventive maintenance on your air conditioner will benefit you in several key ways:
- Extend the life of your system. Your air conditioner needs periodic maintenance to keep it operating efficiently. A poorly maintained system may use as much as 25 percent more energy than one that is tuned up every year
, and will likely need to be replaced sooner. - Lower your utility costs. An efficient air conditioner costs less to operate than one that hasn’t been maintained.
- Prevent mid-summer breakdowns. Air conditioners often break down during the hottest time of the year, when they’re working the hardest.
An A/C tune-up will include these essential points:
- Lubricate the motor to eliminate friction.
- Tighten belts and electrical connections.
- Clean the motor and check the amperage and voltage.
- Test the controls of the system for proper cycling.
- Check and adjust the thermostat.
- Measure the refrigerant level and test for leaks.
- Flush the condensate drain to prevent clogs.
- Clean the outdoor condensing unit.
- Inspect ducts for damage that can cause air leaks, and seal if necessary.
Maintaining your air conditioner regularly after your A/C tune-up is essential to keep it in top shape for the duration of the cooling season.
- Check your air filter monthly and replace it when it’s dirty to ensure optimum airflow and prevent dust from building up inside your air conditioner.
- Keep the outdoor condensing unit free of debris. Hose it down monthly to remove dirt.
- Maintain the area around your indoor unit to prevent dust from entering the system.
- Keep your supply and return registers free of obstructions to keep you cool and ensure proper airflow.
For more expert advice about maintaining your air conditioner, please contact us at Marsh Heating & Air Conditioning, serving the Twin Cities area with a high level of customer satisfaction since 1974.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about A/C tune-ups and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Image courtesy of Shutterstock