How To Maintain Your Air Conditioning System
Proper maintenance of your air conditioning system can help protect one of the most expensive investments in your home. In addition, regular air conditioning maintenance can pay big dividends in improved system performance and reduced energy costs. It can also help to extend the life of your air conditioning system parts and equipment, as well as help to prevent costly and inconvenient breakdowns. Taking correct maintenance steps can improve your system’s safety, an important consideration for your home and family.
The easiest way to make sure that your ac maintenance is done correctly is to have it performed regularly by a qualified, professional air conditioning specialist. For example, an ARS®/Rescue Rooter® complete air conditioning system tune-up includes:
• Inspection of coolant levels and pressure
• Calibration of thermostat and check of proper cycle and temperature
• Inspection of wiring, contacts, capacitors and relays, adjusting and tightening if necessary
• Checking the evaporator coil for cleanliness
• Checking that the condensate drain is clear
• Condenser inspection and cleaning
• Inspection of the outdoor disconnect
• Examination of the condenser fan motor and blades, and lubricating them if needed
• Checking the condenser amps at startup
• Safety and efficiency checks
In between professional tune-ups, there are some things that you can do as a homeowner to stay on top of air conditioning maintenance. (Always be sure to disconnect electricity to the unit before starting any work.) Keep the outside condensing unit clear of leaves, sticks and debris. With electricity turned off, you can rinse the compressor using a garden hose. Change or clean the air conditioner filters, according to manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations. Clean air filters will improve the air flow of your system, saving energy and enhancing the indoor air quality of your home. Check fan belt tension periodically, and inspect hose connections for leaks, cracks, as well as for wear and tear. If you have an older system, the fan and motor bearings may need additional periodic lubrication.
Be sure to ask your air conditioning contractor for other maintenance suggestions that apply to your particular brand and model. Your local ARS®/Rescue Rooter® heating and air conditioning specialist will be happy to share some tips for maintenance and proper upkeep of your system, and will answer any questions you have about operating your equipment.
By choosing an ARS®/Rescue Rooter® Home Service Plan, you’ll receive two Seasonal Tune-Ups on your heating and cooling system as part of the package. You’ll also get Preferred Pricing on service, repair installation and after-hours charges, plus Priority Emergency Service within 24 hours of your call. And, you can move anywhere within ARS®/Rescue Rooter® nationwide service areas and continue the Home Service Plan.
Don’t delay or overlook necessary maintenance on your cooling system. Short-term maintenance practices today can have long-term benefits for your system. Contact ARS®/Rescue Rooter® today to schedule a Seasonal Tune-Up or to start a satisfaction guaranteed Home Service Plan.