Summer is here and it’s time to start running your air conditioner to keep your home comfortable despite the heat outside. Use this checklist to make sure your AC remains effective throughout the summer while keeping your cooling bills down.
Change Your Filters
Neglected air filters restrict airflow through your AC, making it ineffective at cooling your home. Check your filter every month and gently vacuum the loose dirt from the intake side. Plan to change it when there’s visible dirt clinging to the filter, usually every 30 to 90 days for common 1- and 2-inch filters.
Clear Your Condensing Unit
Your condensing unit sits outside your home and is responsible for expelling the heat absorbed from inside your home. It must be able to draw air through the condensing coil and then expel it again. Clear all debris away from the unit, including grass, weeds, shrubs, and trees. Ideally, keep two feet clear around the unit and five feet above it.
Open and Clear Your Vents
For your central AC system to work properly it must push air through your supply vents and draw air through the return vents. Make sure all vents are open and that each supply vent has at least a 2-inch clearance above and around it.
Adjust Your Thermostat’s Programming
Your thermostat has programs that allow you to adjust the temperature based on your preference. Check the programs to make sure the temperature is set correctly for cooling and that the program times match your summer schedule.
Schedule AC Maintenance
The internal components of your system also need annual attention to keep the entire system running well. During your maintenance visit, your technician will inspect the unit, perform a deep cleaning, check and tighten mounting hardware and electrical connections, and run a series of tests. All of this improves your system’s efficiency and identifies small problems before they cause major trouble.
Property owners around Lee’s Summit have trusted AFC Heating and Cooling to keep their homes comfortable since 1956. Our expert team takes pride in providing heating and AC maintenance, repair, and installation along with indoor air quality solutions. Call to schedule your AC maintenance appointment with one of our friendly technicians today.
