Summers in Indianapolis can be brutal, and we all know that air conditioning is a lifesaver during those hot days. But just like any other piece of machinery, air conditioners need proper maintenance to keep them running smoothly for years to come. Neglecting AC maintenance and not making timely repairs can lead to reduced efficiency, higher energy bills, and even premature breakdowns. Therefore, Thiele Heating & Air Conditioning has prepared an Air Conditioning Maintenance Checklist that every homeowner should follow to keep their AC unit in top condition.
Change Air Filters
One easy maintenance task that you can perform on your own is to change the air filters in your AC unit regularly. Dirty or clogged filters can cause your AC system to work harder and use more energy, which will increase your energy bill and reduce its lifespan. By changing the air filter every few months, you will not only improve the indoor air quality in your home but also ensure that your AC system is running efficiently.
Keep Outdoor Unit Clear
Another important maintenance task for homeowners is to keep the outdoor air conditioning unit clear of any debris. Leaves, dirt, and other debris can clog the fins and reduce the airflow, causing your air conditioning system to work harder and less efficiently. To prevent this from happening, you should regularly trim any shrubs or bushes around the unit and clear away any debris buildup. This will help your air conditioning system operate at peak efficiency and prevent breakdowns due to overheating.
Clean the Condenser Coils
The condenser coils are located in the outdoor unit and require regular cleaning to remove dirt, leaves, and other debris that restrict the coils’ ability to efficiently release heat. Turn off the power and use a gentle spray of water to clean the coils or hire a professional to do it for you.
Open Vents Inside the Home
If you have closed vents in your home, it’s important to open them during the summer months to allow proper airflow and cooling throughout your home. Closed vents can create an imbalance in the system, causing some areas of your home to be too hot or too cold. Proper airflow is essential for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures and preventing your air conditioner from overworking to compensate for blocked airflow.
Change Thermostat Settings
Finally, it’s important to reprogram your thermostat for your summer schedule. With warmer temperatures, it’s important to ensure that your home is cool and comfortable when you’re at home, but that you’re not wasting energy cooling an empty house when you’re away. Setting your AC system to a higher temperature when you’re away from home can save you money on your energy bill and also reduce wear and tear on your AC system.
Schedule a Professional AC Tune Up
When you have an HVAC professional perform an annual AC tune-up, it makes a significant difference in your AC unit’s maintenance routine. Professional technicians have the expertise, tools, and experience to identify potential issues early and perform repairs before they become bigger problems. They also have specialized equipment to clean, inspect and maintain your AC unit more effectively than the average homeowner. As part of your tune-up appointment, one of our expert HVAC system technicians will clean your evaporator coil, check the electrical connections within your unit, make sure your condensate drain line is clear, and test your thermostat’s operation.
Moreover, regular air conditioner maintenance performed by HVAC professionals can help prevent costly breakdowns, increase energy efficiency, and extend the life of your AC unit. A professional AC tune-up service can identify and solve minor issues before they become major problems, ensuring that your AC unit stays in peak condition.
Schedule Your AC Tune-Up with Thiele Today
Regular air conditioning maintenance is essential to keep your AC unit running efficiently and reliably. Homeowners can perform some of these tasks themselves, but it’s wise to hire a professional for an AC tune up service to ensure that your unit is functioning optimally.
Contact Thiele Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule professional HVAC maintenance for all of your HVAC equipment. Our professionals will perform a thorough inspection and ensure that your AC unit is in top shape for the upcoming summer. Don’t wait until it’s too late; schedule your AC tune-up today!