Summer is around the corner. That means it’s time to prepare your central air conditioner to keep your house cool and comfortable during the hot months ahead. With proper maintenance and preparation, you can ensure that your air conditioning system runs efficiently all summer long, saving you money on energy bills and avoiding costly repairs.

Here are some essential tips for preparing your central air conditioner for summer.

Clean or Replace Air Filters

One of the many things that you can do to prepare your central air conditioner for summer is to clean or replace the air filters.

As time passes, air filters can become clogged with dirt and debris, making it more difficult for your system to circulate air. This can lead to your air conditioner working harder than it should, resulting in increased energy consumption and higher bills.

Cleaning or replacing your air filters regularly can help keep your system running efficiently. Check your air filters every month and replace them at least once every three months or more frequently if you own pets or have allergies.

Clean the Outdoor Unit

The outdoor unit of your central AC system can become clogged with dirt, leaves, and any other debris over time, affecting its performance.

To prepare your central air conditioner for the coming summer, you should clean the outdoor unit thoroughly.

Begin by shutting off the power to your air conditioning system at the circuit breaker. Then, remove any debris from the top of the unit and use a hose to spray down the fins and coils. Be sure not to bend the fins, as this could affect airflow.

Check the Refrigerant Levels

Refrigerant is the substance that your air conditioning system uses to cool the air. If your system doesn’t have enough refrigerant, it can’t cool your home properly. To avoid this, you should check the refrigerant levels.

If you notice that your air conditioning system isn’t cooling your home as well as it should, it may be because the refrigerant levels are low. In this case, you should call a professional to add refrigerant to your system.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is the control panel for your central air conditioning system. To prepare your central air conditioner for summer, you should check the thermostat to make sure it’s working properly. Start by turning off your system’s power at the circuit breaker.

Then, remove the cover from your thermostat and check the batteries. If they are low, replace them with new ones. Then, turn the power back on and set your thermostat to a lower temperature. If your system doesn’t turn on, you may need to call a professional to repair or replace the thermostat.

Schedule a Professional Maintenance Visit

Finally, one of the best ways to prepare your central air conditioner for summer is to schedule a professional maintenance visit. A professional can inspect your system, clean the coils and fins, check the refrigerant levels, and make any necessary repairs or adjustments.

A professional maintenance visit can also help you avoid costly repairs down the road. By catching problems early, you can avoid breakdowns and prolong the life of your air conditioning system.

Conclusion

Preparing your central air conditioner for summer doesn’t have to be a complicated process, but it does require some attention and care. By following our tips, you can ensure that your air conditioning system runs efficiently all summer long, keeping your home cool and comfortable while saving you money on energy bills.

Remember to clean or replace your air filters regularly, clean the outdoor unit, check the refrigerant levels, and schedule a professional maintenance visit. With these steps, you can enjoy a worry-free summer with a reliable and efficient air conditioning system.

L.J. Kruse Co. is a family-run business that specializes in residential and commercial HVAC services in Berkeley and nearby areas. Contact L.J. Kruse Co. to learn more about our services!