Simple Ways to Prepare Your Air Conditioning this Summer

The cooling system is a big investment and one of the most expensive appliances in the home. Homeowners should do all they can to help protect it and keep it running, including routine air conditioning repair in San Jose, CA. Why? Because starting up the air conditioning after it has been dormant, is a bit like starting up an old car for the first time. It isn’t as simple as flipping a switch and praying everything works. Homeowners will have better success by following these simple tips:

Clean or Replace Air Filters

The first step in home maintenance for the cooling system is making sure the air filters are clear. It is easy and takes very little time. Otherwise, a clogged filter restricts airflow and can freeze the coils. It also makes the unit run harder and longer. This not only consumes more energy and drives up cooling costs, but also can cause the components of the system to wear out much faster. There are so many filters available. Just make sure you get the right size.

Check Ductwork

If a home has forced air heating the air conditioning likely shares the ductwork. So if there hasn’t been any trouble with airflow while heating, then the ductwork is probably fine. Homeowners should do a quick check to make sure all seals are intact and there are no chinks or holes in the ductwork. If you notice a bad odor, see debris, or have recently renovated your home it might be a good idea to call for duct cleaning before running your air conditioning. Otherwise, it probably isn’t necessary.

Clear Outdoor Unit

During the winter debris may have piled up around the outside unit. Again, this can inhibit airflow and heat transfer, causing problems inefficiency. And if homeowners don’t cover the A/C unit in the winter they should take the time to clean it out. Start by clearing away any of the yard waste so there are about three feet of clearance around the unit. Then use a soft cloth or can of air to clean dirt and pollen from the coils. Make sure to push the contaminants out instead of further into the unit, and be careful not to bend any fins. Then open up the unit and carefully clean the inside as well.

Check Coolant Lines

The last step before firing this up is to check the coolant lines. These are the tubes or pipes running from the outside condenser to the inside evaporator. Make sure they are completely covered in insulation sleeves, foam, or tape to avoid energy losses.

Now it is time to test it and flip that switch over to cool. If all doesn’t run smoothly you should call for air conditioning repair in San Jose, CA. Our technicians can come out and get your unit up and running. Call (408) 978-7060 to schedule a repair with one of our technicians. Or visit 1045 N 10th St., San Jose, CA 95112.