Mild temperatures and pleasant conditions characterize the traditional Alabama fall season. But as warmer weather starts to decline, you should ensure that your air conditioning is ready for the change in season. Here’s how to prepare it so that you stay comfortable throughout autumn.

What Are the Best Air Conditioner Maintenance Tasks for Fall?

1. Check for Leaks

An air conditioner must work overtime to meet your desired temperature if there are air leaks throughout the home. Gaps around doors and windows allow air to escape, preventing you from maintaining a balanced climate inside the home. Use caulk and weatherstripping to seal these openings and prevent long-term energy loss.

Additionally, your air ducts may wear down over time, especially if you regularly experience humid weather. The moisture can corrode the metal, leaving tiny openings that allow air to escape.

2. Replace the Air Filter

While you may forget about this step, it provides immediate benefits. The filter traps dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, and other debris that would otherwise circulate throughout your home. Eventually, these contaminants will clog it, forcing your air conditioning unit to work harder than necessary to keep your home comfortable.

Replace it every three months to prevent premature wear on the unit and keep your energy costs low. You may need to replace it monthly if you have a large family or pets that shed regularly.

3. Clean the Outdoor Unit

Throughout the year, the outdoor unit faces inclement weather conditions. It’s also consistently exposed to dirt, twigs, and other debris that may accumulate on the surface and inside the appliance. Since the outdoor unit contains the compressor, motor, and condenser, you should clean it regularly.

Prepare it for fall by gently rinsing the surface with a hose. You can also wipe down the fan’s blades carefully. However, turn off the power supply to the AC before doing this to ensure safety. Then, clear the space around the unit to allow sufficient air flow.

Do you need a dependable professional to inspect your air conditioning system before fall arrives? Let the team at Air One Heating & Cooling LLC in Foley, AL, handle this task for you. They’ll carefully assess your system’s quality and efficiency to ensure that it’s cooling properly. They can also perform AC repairs and check your indoor air quality. Visit the website for more information about their services. Call (251) 967-1665 to speak with a representative.