When it comes to health, they say that prevention is better than a cure. The same is true of your central air conditioning system. Routine maintenance of your central AC is the best way to ensure that it is in good working order once the days start getting hot and you want to cool down your home. Here are some tips to keep your air conditioner in good working order.
Give the Unit Room to Breathe
Make sure that your air conditioner’s outdoor condenser unit isn’t being crowded by landscaping, weeds or structures. A-Plus Quality experts, providing HVAC services in the Greater Toronto Area, recommend clearing a perimeter of at least three feet around the condenser unit to allow for adequate airflow. When airflow to the condenser is obstructed, your air conditioner has to work harder, which can cause undue wear and tear and even premature failure of the system.
Clean the Condenser Unit
Even when you have an ample, unobstructed perimeter around your condenser unit, it can still become coated with leaves, pollen and other things. This debris can obstruct the airflow and cause the system to work harder. To clean your condenser unit, just take a garden hose and spray the front and sides until they are free of debris.
Change the Filters
Routinely changing the filters at the intake vents inside your house is critical to ensure that your central AC is working at peak efficiency. In the same way that obstructions to the outside condenser unit can stress your system and lead to major problems, so can clogged, dirty filters. It is often recommended that you change your filters at least every 90 days, or more often during times of heavy air conditioner use.
When to Seek HVAC Services in the Greater Toronto Area
There are plenty of routine steps you can take to maintain your central AC. But there will come a time when you’ll need to call in a professional from A-Plus Quality for HVAC services in the Greater Toronto Area. Some of these crucial services include making sure there is adequate refrigerant; checking for duct leakage, inspecting belts and oiling motors, among others. Many homeowners opt for an annual, pre-summer checkup with a technician, however you can also have a checkup mid-summer. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with a certified technician!
