The hot days of summer are here. Is your AC unit keeping you comfortable this season? If your Raleigh air conditioner is not keeping you as cool as you need, it may be time to schedule a check up with Carter Heating and Air. Don’t wait until the hottest day of the summer when your cooling system has a breakdown. If you are experiencing warning signs that your AC unit isn’t running as it should, check out these tips to take care of your air conditioning unit to prolong its life, and keep you cool this summer.
Basic Steps to Maintain Your AC Unit
The most basic step to take to lengthen your air conditioner’s life is to change the filter. Check it every three to six months and change as needed. A dirty filter can cause your system to work harder than it has too plus it keeps the coils dust-free as well. Check around the unit and make sure there isn’t any debris or accumulated pollen on the exterior of the condenser that will inhibit ventilation. The fan in the condenser unit draws the outside air through the refrigerant coils and vents it through the top of the unit. If the outdoor unit is restricted by bushes or debris, it will not run properly, causing your unit to overexert itself which means higher energy bills. Prune back bushes and spray the condenser with a hose to get rid of accumulated dirt and debris.
Beware of Warning Signs from your Raleigh Air Conditioner
Your air conditioner could be warning you of impending problems. Excessive noise, the outdoor fan expelling cold air, and ice visible on the copper lines, can all be indicators of a system failure around the corner. If you are seeing these signs shut-off your air conditioner, and schedule a professional check-up immediately. This is the time of year to have these things done so as to avoid a costly repair later on.
A dirty coil or refrigerant leak will cause ice or condensation at the indoor furnace or air handler. Both of these issues require a professional. Dirty coils will overtax the compressor and fan making them work harder to make up for the loss of energy transference. A refrigerant leak can be dangerous to the environment, and must be taken care of properly. Carter Heating and Air will send a certified technician to evaluate the problem and repair the leak, and then properly dispose of any refrigerant that was lost. Maintaining the refrigerant charge in the system is key to its proper operation.
Reduce Chances of a Major Breakdown
A major repair can potentially cost three times more than regular maintenance costs. Regular check-ups will have a professional checking your air conditioner for possible issues that could plague it down the road. Issues such as wire and terminal corrosion happen over time. Problems with the wiring can cause overheating, and result in blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers.
A professional from Carter Heating and Air will examine the electrical system, oil the motors, and check the belts. The precision of the thermostat will also be examined to avoid erratic operation due to temperature sensor issues. All these can help avoid any problems that could shut down your air conditioner this summer. It will also have your system run the best and most efficient it can.
Regain Lost Efficiency in your Cooling System
Every year your AC runs it loses about five percent of its efficiency. You can save money by having a check-up done to help recover this lost effectiveness. A well-maintained unit can retain ninety-five percent of its original capacity, which will help to keep you cool when it is hot outside. A well-maintained air conditioner will also have a longer service life.
Don’t wait until it’s too late – Contact Carter Heating and Air to have one of their professionals make sure your air conditioner is in tip-top condition and can last the entire summer. Scheduling an appointment now by calling (919) 924-0177.