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With summer just around the corner and temperatures on the rise, you need to have an air conditioner in working order. However, to stay cool all season long and avoid inconvenient AC repairs, there are a few steps you must do first. Here are a few ways to prepare the AC before the heat hits.

Clean Up

Make sure the AC unit and all its components are clean before using it. The easiest step is to replace the filters. These become clogged with dust and grime. You should change them at least twice a year, so all those particles aren’t blowing into the home. In addition, a dirty filter will force the system to work harder than it needs to, leading to AC repairs or a replacement.

Next, clean the condenser coils. This piece appears to be a large fan in a metal enclosure with slatted sides that look like grills. There will most likely be leaves, twigs, and other debris that can block air flow if you didn’t cover this component before the fall and winter. Remove the side and top of the metal box and gently clear away everything with a soft brush. Avoid bending the fins or coils inside. For particularly tough grime, spray commercial coil cleaner—but avoid the fan or electrical equipment—or call an AC repair specialist for help.

Test Run

ac repairAfter you clean the unit, check the coolant lines, which are the tubes that move from the evaporator on the air handler to the outside condenser. These components should be insulated. If you notice missing areas or frayed parts, you will need to install new foam insulation.

Once the unit is thoroughly dry, turn on the power and set the thermostat to cool. If you hear everything kick on and you feel cool air flowing, the unit is working as it should. 

 

With more than 25 years of experience, the HVAC contractors at Parker’s Heating & Cooling in Cairo, GA, offer heating and cooling services for southern Georgia and northern Florida. Their AC repair specialists are NATE-certified technicians and will ensure your system is working properly all summer long. They are also available for ductwork, AC installations, and heating system services. Call (229) 377-9129 or visit them online for more information about their services.

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