Having your air conditioner fully checked at least once a year is one of the best ways to ensure that it lasts for as long as possible, needs as few repairs as possible, and maintains the best possible quality of air in your home. Whether you have a system that’s over 10 years old or one that was installed within the last year or two, it’s important to take the time to have someone fully check the system and do any maintenance that will keep it running well for as long as possible. If you’re interested in finding out what you can expect on your next air conditioner check, take a look below.
Thermostat
Every year, you should have your thermostat calibrated to help you properly monitor the temperature that you’re keeping your home at. This can help you maintain a comfortable temperature while also better understanding why you’re using the amount of energy that you are. This might also be a good time to think about the efficiency of your thermostat. Some newer models have features that can help you save even more money on your energy by letting you remotely turn your air conditioner on and off.
Ductwork, Registers, and Return Vents
While the ductwork behind walls is difficult to inspect, any ducts that are exposed should be visually checked for leaks and repaired if any are found so that the proper air pressure is maintained and heat and cool air go where they’re supposed to. You can also get a professional leakage test to find additional leaks. This is not usually part of an annual AC checkup, so make a separate appointment with ductwork specialists. Additionally, return vents and supply registers should be inspected to ensure that there aren’t any blockages that could make your system less efficient.
Air Conditioner Unit
All electrical components should be visually inspected within the air conditioning unit, and they might need to be tightened. Connections and capacitors need to be checked to ensure that there isn’t any rust on them. Additionally, checking the thermostat and blower shutoff should also happen. Issues like a stuck relay connected to the blower can cause the blower to remain on even if the rest of the air conditioner is off. If the blower is running continuously, this will greatly increase your monthly energy bills. Also, a technician should make sure that the outdoor compressor fan motor and indoor blower motor amperage is tested to ensure that they’re working at optimal efficiency.
Drain Lines, Coils, and Refrigerant
All drain lines should be cleaned to clear away debris to prevent blockages that could cause spills on the floor. Additionally, coils should also be cleaned, and refrigerant levels and filled. The technician should test the suction line insulation to ensure that it is in good condition and will be able to prevent major fluctuations in temperature. If any of the coils are damaged, they will likely need replacement. And the coils should also be checked to ensure that they’re within a safe temperature range. While not all systems have a condensate pump, the ones that do should be checked and cleaned of dust and debris so that the system continues to run cleanly during the year.
For safety purposes, all limit controls should be tested. Limit controls ensure that the HVAC system runs safely. A limit switch is something that turns off the electricity under certain circumstances to prevent something from running when you don’t want it to. For instance, when you open your dryer or washing machine in the middle of a cycle, these appliances will shut off. With an air conditioner, the purpose of the limit switch is to shut off the air conditioner and blower when the thermostat senses that the requested temperature has been met.
Talk to Us About Getting Your Air Conditioner Tested
When you need a company in Wichita that can do a full-service inspection on your air conditioner and the rest of the HVAC system, you should count on us at Midwest Mechanical because we offer a full inventory of services, including plumbing. Whether you need an inspection, maintenance, repair, or installation of a new air conditioner, call Midwest Mechanical today to schedule an appointment.
