The heat and humidity around northern Virginia get intense over the summer. This is why your air conditioner is not only a matter of comfort but also of your family’s safety. Here are the best ways to prepare your unit for all this summer will throw at it.
Change Your Air Filter
Changing your air filter is one of the most important maintenance tasks for your HVAC system. This regularly clogs as it filters out the various contaminants floating around in your air.
Most filters need changing about every 90 days, but yours may be different depending on your air quality and filter type. Check it monthly to make sure you know how quickly yours clogs.
Clear Debris From Around Your Condensing Unit
Your system must draw air through the condensing coils to transfer the heat from inside to the air outside. To ensure that your unit can draw enough air, clear the debris from around it. Check the documentation for your specific unit, but 12 inches is a good rule of thumb for the minimum clearance.
Open Your Vents
In order to move the air through your home, your system must create high pressure through the outbound vents. Any closed vents inhibit the system from creating circulating air movement while also reducing your system’s efficiency.
Have Professional Maintenance
Your system collects contaminants on the evaporator coil and circulating fan as it runs. Various components also loosen and wear out, causing reduced efficiency and unusual strain. This increases your operating costs and reduces its effective service life.
Have professional maintenance performed on your unit every year. During this visit, a technician will clean both the coils and the circulating fan. They will also check the refrigerant level and test each component to make sure everything is running optimally.
Residents around Warrenton have turned to Ideal HVAC Services for AC maintenance and repairs since 2013. Our technicians also provide expert heating installation, maintenance, and repair. Call to schedule a visit with one of our technicians today.
