Summer is right around the corner, which means if you haven’t had your air conditioning system inspected yet, now’s the time to do so. The last thing you’re going to want is to get to the hottest part of the summer and suddenly have an air conditioner that’s not working, forcing you to suffer with the heat and discomfort. Plus, it costs you much more money to repair your AC when something goes wrong with it than it does to engage in preventative maintenance.
With this in mind, here are a few simple summer air conditioning preparation tips to get your Ruston, LA system ready for the season:
- Replace the filter: This is by far the simplest form of home HVAC maintenance you can take on, and you’d be amazed at how much of a difference it can make, both in terms of the function of your HVAC system and in the money you pay on your monthly energy bills. The filter should be replaced every couple months so you can make sure your AC runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible. You can order filters online or purchase them at local hardware or big box stores.
- Upgrade your thermostat: If you don’t already have a digital, programmable thermostat in your home, you should seriously consider upgrading to one now. While there will be an initial expense associated with purchasing and installing the thermostat, it will also save you a good deal of money over time, because you’ll be able to program the temperature in your home for specific times of day. If you know, for example, that you’ll be out of the house at certain times, you can avoid running the system during those times so you’re not wasting energy. You can also use vacation settings for when you’re out of the house for days at a time.
- Clean the exterior unit: Your AC’s outside unit gets exposed to the elements constantly, especially if you do not use a cover. While a cover isn’t necessary, it is important for you to give the unit a quick once-over and make sure you clear away any debris or gunk that builds up. Disconnect the power and spray down its exterior with a garden hose, and that should usually be sufficient. You should also remove any vegetation that’s started to grow around the unit to keep the area clear.
- Clear the condensation line: You should pay special attention to the condensation line when you’re cleaning the unit. This is the pipe that takes the condensation away from the air conditioner. If that pipe becomes clogged, it could back up, resulting in potentially expensive repairs. The best thing you can do is make sure the area where the pipe drains out is clear and draining properly.
These are just a few examples of some of the best steps you can take for summer air conditioning preparation. Schedule a routine AC maintenance appointment in Ruston, LA by calling J & B Air Conditioning, Heating, & Gutter today.