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With spring right around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about getting your AC ready for warmer temperatures. Here are 5 tips for priming your air conditioning in St Paul, MN: Prep Work The first step in air conditioner maintenance is to power off the condenser at the service panel. There should be a weatherproof disconnect unit next to the outdoor unit which should be shut off as well. Finally, switch off the breaker to the furnace in the electrical panel located in the house. Wait half an hour for the electrical charge to dissipate before beginning any maintenance work. Replace Filters Routine maintenance should be performed bi-annually on your HVAC system, once in the fall and again in the spring. The first step in this maintenance should be to replace the dirty air filters. When they are clogged, air flow is restricted which can thwart the efficacy of your heating and cooling system or even cause a malfunction. Clear Debris The outdoor condenser unit, even if covered through the winter months, tends to accumulate dirt and debris. Clear accumulated leaves and debris from the base of the unit. Then remove the top and side panels in order to clean out the interior. Loose dirt can be vacuumed, but take extra caution to avoid damaging any wires or coils. There are specially made brushes to handle the delicate job of cleaning the coils, though a soft vacuum brush will also suffice. Commercial coil cleansers can safely remove caked on dirt. Wipe down the fan with a damp rag. Check that the fan belt is in good working condition, and replace if needed. Also, be sure to remove any weeds adjacent to the unit that could obstruct airflow. Check Coolant Lines Refrigerant lines that connect the evaporator to the condenser unit outside are covered in foam insulation. Check this insulation for tears or missing pieces, and replace where needed. Foam insulation tape can be bought at any hardware store. Apply it in a spiral pattern to cover any problem areas. Check Condensation Lines Condensation lines can get clogged, which can lead to a backup within the unit or in your home. Not only will this lead to a large repair bill, it can also promote the growth of mold and mildew. Check that the condensation lines are draining properly. Most blockages can be unclogged with a stiff wire. If it remains clogged, call your local HVAC professional to clear it. Clean Ductwork Keep vents and registers free from dirt and debris by regularly dusting or vacuuming them. As part of your bi-annual maintenance routine, take off register covers and clear the visible ductwork of any debris. Most of the ductwork is hidden behind walls, so you’ll need to call a professional to inspect and clean them. Have this done at least once a year to ensure the ductwork is free of dust and moisture to prevent the growth of mold. An HVAC technician can also inspect to ensure there are no leaks within the system. Programmable Thermostat If you have a manual thermostat, you may consider replacing it with a programmable unit. These can be set to lower the temperature while you are sleeping or out for the day to conserve energy and save money on your utility bill. Performing bi-annual maintenance on your HVAC system can keep it running efficiently all year long. It is also advisable to have an HVAC professional inspect your air conditioning in St Paul, MN, once a year. A professional has the know-how to spot minor issues before they become expensive repairs, so you can stay comfortably cool on even the hottest of days.
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