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DIY Tips and Tricks

Tips for maintaining your AC System


Check your filters at least once a month and change filter as needed  

A dirty filter restricts airflow going into system and can cause a variety of problems that not only keep your system from operating at it's best but left unchecked can cause major system damage leading to costly repairs.

 

Check the outside condensing unit for dirt and debris periodically to make sure condenser coils are not excessively dirty 

Depending on the surrounding elements the condenser coils can get plugged rather quickly and prevent the system from operating properly.  When needed, wash the coils down with water from a garden hose to remove dirt.  NOTE*  We do not recommend using a high pressure sprayer as this could damage the condensing unit coils.  If coils are excessively dirty and require more than a garden hose will accomplish, we recommend setting up an appointment to have your system serviced.

 

Make sure to have your system serviced twice a year by a certified HVAC service technician.

Having your cooling system serviced early spring and your heating system serviced early fall can go a long way in keeping your system operating at optimal performance.  We have a twenty one point checklist that we go by to perform your preventative maintenance.  Remember, just checking a system for problems is not a comprehensive maintenance program.

 

 

 

Check the outside condensing unit to make sure it's level

Ground settling, erosion and tree roots can, over time, effect the level surface your condensing unit is set on and can effect the operation of the unit.  If the unit is obviously not level, set up an appointment to have your unit re-leveled.  We do not recommend homeowners attempting this as it could cause leaks in the copper Freon lines attached to the system.

 

Check thermostat operation

Thermostats that are malfunctioning can cause the system to run much more than the temperature setting calls for, increasing energy use and energy bills.  You can check to see if the calibration is right by placing a small hand held thermometer on top of the thermostat to compare readings.  Depending on the type of thermostat you have,  it can be normal for a thermostat to have up to a three degree differential from the setting to the reading.  If it's more than this, you mostly likely need to have your thermostat replaced.  Digital thermostats are the most accurate, if you don't have one installed in your home, consider replacing an older model with a digital one.  

 

 

 

 

 Call or email us to get added to our mailing list for our bi-annual postcard reminders to have your system serviced at it's appropriate time and also receive a 15% discount off of one system maintenance.  This discount is offered twice a year, every year, to our loyal customers.