With warm weather just around the corner in the St. Louis area, it is important to make sure your air conditioning system is ready for the heat. Without proper maintenance, your air conditioner may not provide the cooling performance you require, it may cost more to operate, or it may suffer component failures and breakdowns. Simple maintenance can prevent many AC problems and here are some of the most important steps you can take:
Before the Cooling Season Begins
- Replace your air filter – A new, high-efficiency air filter can remove contaminants like dust and pollen from your household air, making it healthier, while protecting your air conditioning system from damage.
- Clean the outdoor unit – Remove leaves, twigs, and debris from the top and sides of the outdoor condenser unit. With the power off, carefully rinses away any remaining dirt from the condenser coils with a garden hose. This will improve the efficiency of your AC unit, helping it to remove heat from your home easier.
- Clean around the condenser unit – Cut the grass and remove any debris within two feet of the condenser unit to promote better airflow over the coils.
Every Month During the Summer
- Check your air filter – Check the air filter monthly and replace it when it has accumulated excessive dirt and debris. Most air filters must be replaced at least every three months, but they can clog more frequently.
- Inspect refrigerant lines – Make sure there is no damaged insulation, leaks, or frost buildup on any of your refrigerant lines. If you find a problem, call your HVAC contractor.
- Clean the condensate drain – A clogged condensate drain can increase humidity in your home and encourage bacterial growth. Use a bleach solution to clean the drain monthly, and use a vacuum, compressed air, or a wire to clear any clogs.
Once or Twice a Year
- Make sure your condenser is secure – Check the outdoor condenser unit to make sure it is clean, level, and firmly secured to its concrete pad.
- Replace thermostat batteries – If you have a battery-powered programmable thermostat, replace the batteries at least once a year. It is also a good idea to replace the batteries on smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors at the same time.
- Schedule professional maintenance – An HVAC professional should inspect and maintain your air conditioning system twice a year. A typical AC maintenance visit will include cleaning the coils, cleaning the air handler, lubricating bearings and pulleys, checking refrigerant levels, inspecting the electrical system, testing disconnects, measuring airflow, testing start capacitors, testing relays, and measuring compressor, blower motor, and condenser fan current. Proper maintenance can extend the life of your system, reduce cooling costs, and improve your comfort.
AC Maintenance in St. Louis, MO
When it is time to have your air conditioner inspected and maintained, contact our team at Classic Aire Care. We feature comprehensive AC maintenance services for central air conditioners, packaged systems, heat pumps, ductless mini splits, and more. Since 1926, we have been serving the Greater St. Louis area, providing quality heating, air conditioning, plumbing, and indoor air quality services.
To schedule air conditioning maintenance in your St. Louis home, call our team at (314) 329-1943 or contact us online today!
