The best way to keep the air conditioning system up and about for years is to tune up your air conditioner regularly. Doing so will help the unit and the system restore its operating condition and extend durability. When you tune-up your air conditioner, it should generally include the following:
- Cleaning and checking the evaporator and condenser coils.
- Checking for any refrigerant leaks in the system and repairing them.
- Inspect the unit’s electrical components for any damage or wear and tear.
- Lubricating the moving parts to ensure smooth operation.
- Checking and resetting the thermostat for proper operation.
You should tune up your air conditioner at least once a year, preferably before the summer season. This will help avoid unexpected breakdowns and keep your unit running smoothly all year long.
Inspection and cleaning of the air filter
The air filter is integral to the air conditioner, and it requires regular inspection and cleaning to ensure the quality of the air inside the room. Unfortunately, it is the part that quickly gets dirty and dusty. If not dusted off now and then, it may affect air filtration and cool airflow.
When cleaning the air filter, check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Some filters are washable, while others need to be replaced. If you have a washable air filter, gently remove it and tap it against a hard surface to dislodge any trapped dirt and dust.
Rinse it under running water until it runs clear, then allow it to air dry completely before replacing it. Replace a disposable air filter with a new one.
Cleaning of the blower fan
If the air coming out from the unit is not that cool, there is a big possibility that the blower fan is dirty. Therefore, part of the tune-up procedure is to clean the fan.
First, the technician removes the fan, cleans it, and cleans the inner portion of the condenser unit and condenser coil. After that, the technician will reassemble the parts and check if the unit is working correctly.
If your AC is not working as efficiently as it used to, it might be time for a tune-up. Spring is the time to get your AC unit checked and serviced by a professional. This will help ensure that your AC unit is ready for summer.
Inspection of the air-distribution system
The inspection of the air-distribution system is important in any air-conditioner tune-ups and maintenance. It includes the air ducts, the plenums, the duct surface area, and the duct sealing. The inspection is to clean the system and locate the leakage if there is any.
Most of the time, when an air-conditioner is not functioning well, it is due to the improper distribution of air. This can be caused by ductwork leaks or blockages in the vents or registers. To ensure your air conditioner is operating at peak efficiency, it is important to have your ductwork inspected and cleaned regularly.
Ductwork is the system of air ducts that distributes cool air from your air conditioner to the different rooms in your home. Dirt can build up in the ductwork, causing it to become clogged and inefficient.
In addition, if there are any leaks in the ductwork, this can also cause your air conditioner to run more than it needs to, which can lead to higher energy bills.
Inspection of the electrical control systems
For safety and high efficiency of the unit, inspection f the electrical system is important.
As part of the tune-up process, the technician inspects the electrical components, including the electrical wiring to check if there is a burnt contact.
Also, you can expect the technician to test the electricity cycle to prevent power shortage and allow the unit to operate smoothly.
Inspection of the cooling system refrigerant level, thermostat, and zoning controls
The refrigerant levels need a consistent inspection. Low refrigerant levels indicate a leak. Recharge the refrigerant after it’s repaired.
The thermostat and zoning controls are checked during a tune-up. Thermostats can go wrong due to wiring problems, causing the unit to heat up and cool down at the wrong time. Zoning controls make sure each zone in your home is heated or cooled as needed.
If a room isn’t being used, the HVAC system can be turned off for that zone, saving you energy and money.
Checking and calibrating these controls ensures your system is operating as efficiently as possible.
Evaluation of the system’s overall performance and efficiency
When cleaning, draining, and inspections are completed, the technician will evaluate whether the system is operating smoothly and efficiently.
If repair and replacement of parts are necessary, it is worth the cost rather than leave the unit poorly performing. Consideration is also given to energy efficiency and how a new system may lower utility costs.
Once the decision is made to repair or replace, the trained technician will know what steps to take next. It may be as simple as repairing a broken component in some cases. On the other hand, it may require more extensive work, such as replacing worn-out parts or upgrading the entire system. The technician will work quickly and efficiently to get your system up and running again.
Tune-Up Your Air Conditioner
Tune-up your air conditioner regularly will enable the system to run efficiently, and when it does, it uses less energy. It also prevents costly repairs and prolongs the life of the units. However, although a tune-up can be done on your own, it is still best to have the system checked by an expert from time to time.
ECM Air Conditioning, with its headquarters located in Boynton Beach, FL, provides air conditioning services within Palm Beach County, Broward County, Martin County, and St. Lucie County. If you’re looking to have a new HVAC system installed, we’re on-call and ready to assist you. So if you’re in need of an HVAC installation, don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule an inspection! Our HVAC installation experts will check your ductwork, measure, check wire sizes, and more before making recommendations to ensure maximum efficiency and comfort. Call us at 561-295-1763 or contact our HVAC installation team online by clicking here.