Off-season maintenance is crucial for ensuring your unit’s efficiency and longevity, and can prevent unexpected and expensive breakdowns when you need your AC the most! Read on for tune-up tips from the experts at Cross Heating & Air Conditioning and make sure your AC is up to the task when temperatures start to rise.
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Cleaning & Inspections
The first, and probably easiest thing, to do in the offseason is a thorough cleaning and inspection of your air conditioner. Turn off the power and remove any debris or dirt from the outdoor components, then clean the fan blades and the condenser with a gentle brush. Once cleaned, carefully inspect the unit and look for signs of damage or potential blockages. It’s important to ensure everything is clean and in good condition before turning on your AC for the first time.
Covering The Outdoor Unit
Covering the outdoor unit of your AC system can protect it from fall and winter debris and damage. However, using a cover can also trap moisture inside, which could lead to corrosion or mold growth. If you choose a cover, make sure it’s breathable to prevent moisture accumulation and periodically check for water damage.The Importance of Checking Drafts & Seals
While not directly related to your AC, checking for drafts and ensuring proper seals around doors and windows can go a long way to improving performance and efficiency. This reduces the load on your cooling system, and stops cool air from escaping, keeping you and your AC comfortable.Testing, Testing…
Even when it’s cold out, it’s important to do a quick test run of your AC unit every once in a while to help keep components moving and prevent the system from seizing up. Now, that doesn’t mean you’re running it all day. Just a quick on and off will do the trick. Listen for any weird noises that could indicate loose or malfunctioning parts, identifying any issues that might have developed during the winter, so you can address them sooner.
Setting Your Thermostat
Adjusting your thermostat settings for winter can help you save on utility costs. Using smart, programmable thermostats are an easy way to adjust temperature around your schedule, so you’re not wasting valuable energy when you don’t need it.
The Value Of Professional Inspections
Finally, scheduling a professional AC tune-up before the end of winter can be invaluable! Enter in the team at Cross Heating & Air Conditioning. When you schedule AC maintenance our skilled technicians will thoroughly inspect and tune-up your air conditioner, addressing any potential issues and ensuring optimal functionality for the season ahead! We’ll make sure your AC is working it’s best by checking:- Airflow - Looking at the function of your furnace, furnace blower and condenser fan that your central AC is connected to.
- Refrigerant Levels - Ensuring the levels are where they need to be to prevent freeze-ups and inefficiencies.
- Electrical - Loose wire connections, thermostats, motors and compressors can cause damage and failure.
- Coils - Condenser and evaporator coils need to be clean and free of damage.
- Dampers - We will make sure dampers are adjusted for the summer months, so your AC runs efficiently.
- Visual Inspection - We will look at your entire system to check if we can see any issues that could cause problems in the future.
Cross Advantage Program
Another one of the most effective ways to maintain your AC unit is by signing up for the Cross Advantage Program. For just $18.95/month you’ll get the peace of mind of pre-scheduled, semi-annual maintenance. You’ll also get:- 1-year repair warranty.
- Annual HVAC Dollars.
- 10% discount on future repairs.
- 20% discount on air filters.
- Reduced service rates.
- Product warranty protection.
