When that first hot summer day hits in San Diego, many homeowners run straight to their thermostat to turn on the AC. Though many will spend the day enjoying the cool indoor air, several will find, due to some unpredictable issue, that their system will not work as efficiently as it should. This is because we, as homeowners, often find ourselves neglecting our system until we need it the most.
One way to think about your AC unit is to compare it to having your car sit in the garage without running for 6 months or more. Before you head out on a road trip you would definitely get a tune-up, change the oil and have the mechanic do a safety check on other parts like tires. It’s the same with your AC unit that’s likely been sitting idle for the fall and winter months and into spring.
Luckily, here are some easy steps you can take to ensure your AC is ready for summer.
Do Some Spring Cleaning
The last thing you want to deal with, on a hot summer day, is a broken or poorly running air conditioner. One way to ensure you prevent this issue is by always keeping clean air filters. When you leave a dirty, debris-filled air filter, you’re putting some very unnecessary pressure on your system, forcing it to work harder than it should to provide you with cool air.
Additionally, you’ll want to ensure that the outside area where your compressor resides is clear of any trees, plants, leaves and other debris, so this vital part of your AC can work without any issues.
Turn It On!
Once you thoroughly clean your system indoors and outdoors, you’ll want to turn it on. By now, you might think that waiting until the first hot day makes the most sense, but it’s actually the worst thing you can do. In fact, waiting until the very last minute could surprise you with an unexpected AC issue. Before the first day of summer, turn it on and check for inconsistent temperatures, weird noises, or any other issues you’ll want to get taken care of before the hottest season of the year.
Time to Call for a Tune Up
If you do notice anything out of the ordinary, it’s time to call and schedule an AC tune-up. Annually getting your system serviced can help find small issues, such as air duct leaks. Not only that, but you can expect a lower risk of a having your unit breakdown, inconsistent energy bills, and ultimately increasing your system’s lifespan. And a lot of homeowners don’t realize that many manufacturers require an annual tune-up in order to maintain their warranty, so it’s a really good idea to plan your tune up with each spring cleaning.
Are you looking to keep your AC working at its best? The experts at Anderson Plumbing, Heating and Air are here to help! Contact us today!