AC Maintenance:

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Why you should clean your condenser coil.

To prevent surprises when the temperatures start to soar, April is the right time to do a pre-season check of your AC system. Skipping this checklist could leave you sweltering on the first hot day of the year. So here is a quick pre-season checklist for your AC system:

1. Check the outside condenser unit. Make sure that it is not obstructed by leaves, trash, etc. Also ensure that shrubs, etc are not blocking the condenser.

2. Change your system’s air filters.

3. Check air distribution registers in your rooms to be sure they are open. Also make sure that the registers are not blocked by furniture , carpeting or drapes.

4. Inside unit: Check the condensate drain pipes and drain pan. Sometimes the pan gets bumped out of place. Be sure that the pan is not cracked and the pipe is unobstructed. If you have a condensate pump, then pour some water in it to be sure the pump automatically kicks on.

5. Switch on your AC to test it. You don’t have to run it for long, just check that it turns on and starts delivering cold air.

And if you are more ambitious and handy around the house, here are some other maintenance tasks which you should consider for your AC system:

CONDENSER: Check condenser coils. Dirty condenser coil will cause the AC unit to be inefficient. A dirty condenser coil will act as an insulator and prevent the rate of heat transfer. Clean and straighten any bent fins of the unit. And check condenser fan and oil the motor if necessary.

EVAPORATOR: Clean the evaporator coils. If the coil is dirty it reduces its effectiveness for absorbing heat. Clean the indoor blowers. In older models, the blower may have a fan belt which should be checked for tears and wearing. If the blower has blades then clean the blades, as dirt on the blades can cause resistance to air flow.

DUCTWORK: Inspect your exposed HVAC ductwork in unfinished areas to see if there are any air leaks. Ductwork cleaning. You may be able to clean inside of your registers (both supply and delivery registers) with a vacuum attachment, however a more thorough cleaning of your entire system will require a professional.