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When summer comes, the heat hits with full force.\u00a0 When it gets hot in our home, it\u2019s time to turn on our air conditioning units for comfortable, cooler temperature.\u00a0 However, the AC unit has sat idle all winter long and might be in need of repairs before it can efficiently cool the home.\u00a0 Here are seven step to follow before turning on the AC unit this summer to ensure it will work efficiently all summer long.<\/p>\n
Look Over Inside Equipment for Obvious Flaws<\/strong><\/p>\n Give your AC unit, ductwork, and thermostat a once-over to look for wear and tear.\u00a0 Check the thermostat to be sure it turns on and is working properly.\u00a0 If you have an older thermostat, consider upgrading to a newer, more efficient product for energy savings.\u00a0 Repair or replace air ducts that show signs of wear and tear to also increase efficiency.\u00a0 Be sure air vents around the home are clear of debris.\u00a0 Remove anything such as furniture or drapes that could block airflow.<\/p>\n Change the Air Filter<\/strong><\/p>\n Before turning on the AC, be sure to check the air filter and replace if necessary.\u00a0 It is recommended that you change the air filter every three months.\u00a0 Changing the air filter before turning on your AC for the summer is always a good idea to be sure you have proper air flow all summer long.\u00a0<\/p>\n Look Over Electrical Connections<\/strong><\/p>\n Look over wiring and hookups to be certain there is power to the AC unit.\u00a0 You want to be careful to check that all wiring is securely attached and that the AC unit has power to it so it will power on when you are ready to use it.<\/p>\n Check the Drain Line<\/strong><\/p>\n Check the AC drain line for debris or clogs that may have occurred during the winter months.\u00a0 Rinse out the drain line to clear blockage.\u00a0 A clogged AC line can cause significant damage to a home.\u00a0 Clogs cause water to back up, and since that water has to go somewhere, it will leak out and cause water damage.\u00a0 Avoid costly repairs by checking that the drain line is clear each year before firing up the AC unit.<\/p>\n Inspect Outside Equipment<\/strong><\/p>\n After you are sure everything in the inside of the home is working properly, move to the outside of the home and focus on the unit itself.\u00a0 Again, check electrical wiring outside for wear and tear.\u00a0 Refrigerant lines are an important part of cooling a home, so give them a once over.\u00a0 These lines should be properly insulated to keep the air cool and improve the efficiency of your unit.\u00a0<\/p>\n Check the Condenser<\/strong><\/p>\n The condenser is another area where debris can accumulate and cause a blockage.\u00a0 Clear any debris from the condenser and clean the unit.\u00a0 Anything that blocks the condenser will affect the performance of the AC unit.\u00a0 Ensure that all panels are accounted for as missing panels can lead to poor electrical connections.\u00a0<\/p>\n