Is My A/C Ready for Spring?

It is spring! The days get longer. The flowers start springing up. The temperatures are rising. And now is the time to start thinking about your air conditioning system. Is your A/C ready for spring? Or do you need to schedule a routine air conditioning repair in Saratoga, CA? Here are some of the things you should do to prepare your air conditioner.

1. Remove Covers, Coil Blankets, or Lids

If you covered the condenser to protect it over the winter, then the first step is to uncover them. Leaving the cover on will limit heat transfer and operating the air conditioner with the cover on, even briefly, could damage the system.

2. Inspect the Outdoor Unit

Once you remove the cover take a moment to inspect the outdoor unit. Check the panels that enclose the electrical system and make sure they are in place. If the panel is misaligned or missing, you should wait to turn on the system until it is realigned or replaced.

3. Check the Pipe Insulation

Inspecting the unit should also include checking the lines and pipes. The larger, copper pipe is the suction line. It helps supply cool refrigerant and feeds it back to the compressor. If the insulation on this pipe is lost or damaged there would be a loss of cooling required for the outdoor unit. Replace the insulation before starting the unit.

4. Remove Debris from the Outdoor Coil

Over the winter trash and debris can blow around the outdoor unit. You will want to clear away any branches, leaves, twigs, or garbage. Establish a three-foot perimeter around the entire unit.

5. Check the Coil Drainage Hose

Another thing you can do to prepare your air conditioning is to check the condensate line or drainage hose. Usually, this is a copper or PVC pipe that runs from the inside of the home to the outside and is often found by the outdoor unit. Water will condense in the coil and drip into the tray. The water needs to flow and drain otherwise it could flood the unit.

6. Clean Supply Vents and Return Grills

Now it is time to move inside. Go throughout the house and check to make sure all the vents are clear of debris and obstructions. You also want to make sure the vents are open so the system can run efficiently.

7. Check the Thermostat and Circuit Breaker

Once you have done all this it is nearly time to fire up the system. But be sure to check the thermostat and circuit breaker to make sure they are flipped on and adjust the settings.

8. Change the Air Filters

Changing the air filters should be part of the routine maintenance for your home. During peak use, you should check the filters once a month and swap them out if they get clogged.

9. Turn it on and See if it Works

Now that you have given everything a good check, it is time to flip on the switch. You will hear the system turn on and after a few minutes, you should feel cool air start coming out.

10. Schedule an Annual Tune-Up

Annual air conditioning repair in Saratoga, CA should be part of your pre-summer maintenance. They will make sure everything is in working order and your system will operate efficiently for the entire season.