The hot and humid summers in Virginia Beach, VA, cause you to rely on your air conditioner for indoor comfort. The last thing you want to deal with in the middle of summer is a broken cooling system. Follow these three maintenance tips in order to prevent unexpected and expensive AC repairs.
Change the Air Filter
The most important maintenance you can do for your air conditioner is to change the filter. Check the filter monthly. If it’s dirty after 30 days, go ahead and replace it. At minimum, replace the filter every two months. According to the Department of Energy, replacing an old, clogged filter with a new, clean one lowers the risk of a malfunction and boosts the system’s efficiency by 5% to 15%.
Clean the Condensate Line and Outside Unit
A clogged condensate line could cause water to back up in the air handler. Dirty outdoor coils or housing interfere with heat dissipation and could cause the system to overheat. Turn off the thermostat and the AC’s breaker. Use a wet/dry vacuum to suction debris out of the condensate line. Flush the line with a 10% bleach solution in order to eliminate bacteria and algae growth. Scrub the outdoor unit’s housing. Use a garden hose with a jet sprayer to loosen debris.
Vacuum the Vents
Dirty vents and ducts impede airflow. Your AC will work harder, which could cause extra wear and tear and a shorter cooling system lifespan. Each month, use a damp microfiber cloth to clean the inside and outside of the vent covers. Remove the vent covers, and use the extension hose of your vacuum to suction dust and debris out of the vent openings. If you don’t feel much air blowing through the vents, you’ll need air conditioner repair services.
To learn more maintenance tips for preventing AC repairs, take a look at Climatemakers of VA’s air conditioning repair service, or call us today for additional tips.
