End Of Summer AC Tips: What To Do With Your Air Conditioner Unit
Following a busy summer, it’s time to give your cooling system a break and shift attention to heating your home for the cooler months ahead. While turning off your air conditioner is a natural step as the weather cools, it’s essential to do more than just power it down. Taking the proper steps to shut down your AC extends its service life and guarantees its efficiency for the next season. Continue reading this article from Lawes Company for essential end of summer AC tips on how to maintain your air conditioner at the end of summer.
End-of-Summer Air Conditioner Care
Contents
This article covers critical practices for homeowners aiming to maintain their cooling systems properly as summer concludes.
Shutting Down Your Air Conditioner
Here’s how to properly close down your air conditioner as the season changes.
Reviewing Energy Bills
Collect recent energy bills and compare them to those from the previous year to identify significant fluctuations. Assess whether these changes align with your usage and appliance patterns. If energy consumption unexpectedly increases, consult an HVAC technician.
Document Cooling System Issues
Keeping a record of any issues you’ve encountered with your air conditioner over the summer is beneficial. If you haven’t started a log, begin one now by jotting down any problems you recall. These notes will be invaluable for keeping your technician informed during routine maintenance visits.
Avoid Using an Air Conditioner Cover
As winter nears, consider covering your outdoor air conditioner for protection, but this can be detrimental. Covers can trap moisture, causing rust and internal damage. Your unit is built to endure winter weather without a cover. Focus instead on keeping the area around the compressor clear of debris. Regularly removing leaves, branches, and other materials will help maintain your unit’s condition during the off-season.
Schedule your HVAC maintenance with Lawes Company today! Book a comprehensive check-up with our expert technicians to ensure your system stays in peak condition.
Identifying Common Air Conditioner Problems
After working tirelessly throughout the summer, your air conditioning system may have developed some common issues. With the arrival of fall, it is prudent to inspect your system for any problems.
Catching these issues early allows for prompt solutions, helping to avoid minor problems escalating into significant repairs. Ensure you thoroughly check your system to ensure it’s ready for the next cooling season.
Issues with Frozen Air Conditioner Coils
Dirt and debris in the air can build up on your air conditioner’s coils, creating an insulating layer that hampers efficient heat transfer. This reduction in efficiency and cooling capacity can eventually cause the coils to freeze, severely affecting your system’s performance and possibly leading to damage. Regularly cleaning the coils is essential to prevent these issues and maintain your air conditioner’s effectiveness.
If you observe frost on the coils or experience reduced airflow, it’s crucial to call a technician right away. A professional will thoroughly clean the coils and confirm that your system is functioning correctly. Prompt attention to these issues helps sustain your air conditioner’s efficiency and extend its lifespan. Regular upkeep and cleaning are crucial to preventing such problems and keeping your system in peak condition during the cooling season.
Dirty HVAC Filter
Air filters in your air conditioning system capture dirt, dust, and other particles. Accumulated dirt on the filters indicates they are effectively trapping contaminants. However, cleaning or replacing these filters regularly is crucial to prevent clogs and ensure good air quality.
While HVAC filters are beneficial for trapping dirt, excessive buildup can impede airflow, forcing your air conditioning system to work harder and use more energy. This may increase your bills and risk damage to the system.
For optimal performance, regularly check your filters and replace them monthly, particularly during periods of high usage. Consistent filter maintenance ensures efficient airflow, enhances indoor air quality, and prolongs the life of your air conditioning system, helping it run smoothly and efficiently all year round.
Clogged Air Conditioner Drains
Condensation around your air conditioner’s cold coils should drain smoothly. However, accumulated dirt and debris can clog these drains, obstructing water flow and leading to overflows. If water cannot exit the system properly, it may result in leaks within the unit, risking damage to the air conditioner and your home.
A leaking air conditioning system often signals a clogged drain. If you encounter this issue, you must contact an HVAC contractor to inspect and clean your system. A professional technician will remove the blockage, allowing the condensate to drain correctly and preventing future complications. Regular maintenance is critical to avoiding these issues and ensuring your AC unit operates efficiently and without leaks.
Schedule a Professional HVAC Service. To maintain an efficient and effective system, book an appointment with Lawes Company today!
Post-Summer Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips
Establish a routine for post-summer air conditioner maintenance. While handling simple tasks yourself is feasible, professional help often leads to better outcomes. HVAC experts can identify problems that might elude amateurs and quickly address them. Opting for professional maintenance ensures your air conditioner is meticulously inspected and cared for, boosting its efficiency and extending its lifespan for the upcoming cooling season.
Listen to Your Air Conditioning Unit
Activate your air conditioner and listen attentively to its operation. A well-functioning unit should emit a steady, quiet hum. However, noticing unusual noises like clicking, banging, wheezing, or screeching could indicate potential issues, such as loose parts or blocked airflow.
If you encounter any odd sounds, consult a professional HVAC technician for a thorough checkup and repair. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more extensive damage and help maintain your air conditioner’s efficiency.
Check Air Conditioner Electrical Connections
Pay close attention to your air conditioner’s electrical system to ensure safety and functionality. To prevent accidents, always turn off the power at the main switch or circuit breaker before beginning maintenance.
For the best safety and performance, it is advisable to let a trained HVAC technician manage these checks. A professional will:
- Thoroughly inspect all electrical connections to confirm they are secure and operating correctly.
- Assess the condition of the wires for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion, and replace any damaged sections to prevent potential hazards like fires or electrical shocks.
- Identify and resolve electrical issues such as faulty capacitors, which can impede the unit’s start-up and operation, and short circuits, which present significant safety risks.
Entrusting these tasks to a professional ensures that your air conditioner’s electrical system is comprehensively inspected and maintained, safeguarding against potential dangers and extending the lifespan of your unit.
Clean Air Conditioner Coils
Regular cleaning of the AC coils is crucial, even if they aren’t frozen. Thorough cleaning and debris removal inside the system prevents dirt from accumulating on the coils. A vacuum cleaner can effectively clear foreign materials from the fins.
Trim any nearby bushes and weeds for the outdoor unit to minimize debris entry. Clear the surrounding area will enhance the unit’s efficiency and prevent operational issues. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for smooth and effective air conditioner operation.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is crucial for controlling your air conditioner, making its accuracy essential. Begin by replacing any low-running batteries. Then, update the thermostat from summer to fall settings to align with seasonal usage patterns. Proper maintenance and adjustment of your thermostat ensure your air conditioner’s effective and efficient operation all year round.
Schedule Professional Air Conditioner Maintenance
If managing air conditioner maintenance seems daunting, remember you don’t have to do it alone. Enlist the help of a local HVAC technician who can handle all necessary maintenance and repairs. Trained professionals are equipped to take care of every component of your cooling system, ensuring it operates efficiently and reliably.
HVAC technicians perform maintenance and offer advice on preventing common cooling system issues. They can guide you on regular maintenance routines, alert you to signs of potential problems, and suggest ways to boost your system’s performance. Relying on their expertise and following end of summer AC tips allows you to keep your air conditioner in optimal condition without the stress of handling it yourself.
Schedule your seasonal HVAC check-up! Get your system ready for the upcoming season with a comprehensive check-up from Lawes Company. Call today!
Consider a Cooling System Upgrade
As summer winds down, evaluate the viability of continuing with your current air conditioner. Consider its age—most units last 10 to 15 years with regular maintenance. If your air conditioner is approaching or within this age range and experiencing frequent breakdowns, it might be time to consider a replacement.
Investing in a new air conditioner can alleviate the stress of escalating repair costs. A modern cooling system operates seamlessly, offering enhanced features and improved energy efficiency. This upgrade can reduce your energy bills, elevate comfort levels, and provide the reassurance that comes with a dependable and contemporary cooling system.
Set an appointment with Lawes Company to safeguard your HVAC system and avoid future problems today!
Schedule a Heating System Tune-Up
With winter on the horizon, now is the ideal time to shift attention from your air conditioner to your heating system. Booking a professional tune-up for your furnace or boiler is crucial to ensure it’s ready for the colder months ahead.
Addressing all heating issues during the fall can prevent the discomfort of a malfunctioning furnace in the dead of winter. If your heating relies on oil, refill your tank to ensure continuous warmth throughout the season. These proactive steps are vital to maintaining a cozy and warm home all winter.
End Of Summer AC Tips FAQs
Explore these frequently asked questions for essential end-of-summer air conditioner maintenance tips.
How Often Should I Service My Air Conditioner?
It’s advisable to service your air conditioner annually, ideally just before the cooling season begins. Regular maintenance promotes efficient operation, minimizes breakdown risks, and prolongs the unit’s lifespan.
Can I Cover My AC With A Tarp?
Covering your air conditioner with a tarp is not recommended. Tarps can trap moisture, which may lead to rust and damage the internal components. Air conditioners are built to endure outdoor conditions; instead, focus on keeping the area around the unit clear of debris.
What Should I Do If My Air Conditioner Smells Musty?
An air conditioning unit emitting a musty smell often indicates mold or mildew growth. Turn off the unit and have an HVAC technician inspect and clean the system. Regularly changing the filters and maintaining the unit can help prevent such issues.
How Can I Enhance My HVAC System’s Efficiency?
Boost your HVAC system’s efficiency by arranging regular maintenance and tune-ups, changing air filters every one to three months, ensuring your home is well-insulated, sealing any leaks in ducts or windows, and using a programmable thermostat to manage temperature settings effectively.
What Should I Do If My Air Conditioner Is Leaking Water?
A water leak from your air conditioner often suggests a clogged condensate drain line or issues with internal components. Turn off the system and consult an HVAC technician for an inspection and resolution. Regular maintenance is critical to preventing such problems, ensuring the drain lines and other components are clean and functioning correctly.
Get Expert HVAC Service! For professional assistance, call Lawes Company to schedule an appointment with our experienced technicians for all your HVAC needs.
Conclusion
Air conditioners are essential for comfort during the hot summer, working tirelessly to keep us cool. As summer winds down, it’s necessary to give your cooling system some attention. Conducting fall maintenance can extend the life of your air conditioner. For a comprehensive evaluation and timely repairs, consider hiring a certified HVAC technician to ensure your system remains in optimal condition. Follow these end of summer AC tips to keep your air conditioner in shape.
Call Lawes Company for Top-Notch HVAC Services
Lawes Company provides top-notch heating and cooling services across the Jersey Shore area. Our team of certified technicians delivers expert HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements, ensuring your system operates flawlessly. We offer the most competitive rates in the industry.
Our maintenance services enhance comfort, boost energy efficiency, and cut heating and cooling costs. If you require HVAC repair or need a new system, we’ll recommend the best options within your budget. We guarantee your satisfaction with our work. Contact Lawes Company today for a complimentary, in-home estimate and to schedule your service appointment.
Should you require HVAC repair or a new system, we recommend the most suitable options for your home, ensuring they align with your financial plan.
We stand behind our work with a satisfaction guarantee. To arrange a service visit, don’t hesitate to contact Lawes Company today. We provide complimentary, on-site estimates.
Contact us now at (732) 741-6300 to find out more! Click the link to view our service area.
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