Preparing your A/C for Summer

Since summer is just around the corner, lets talk about air conditioning units. Now is a good time to check your unit to make sure it will function properly this summer in our humid Iowa temperatures. The last thing you need to is to have your a/c not work when you turn it on for our first 90 degree day! Regular maintenance can also reduce your cooling bills. Here are a few ways homeowners can assess their a/c.

1. Clean any dust or debris from inside the unit. Leaves and dirt can accumulate, causing it to clog up and run sluggishly. Unplug the power and do a quick spray of the coils with a garden hose sprayer, this can make a world of a difference! Be sure not to spray the electrical component, it may be beneficial to cover this portion with a garbage bag.
2. Use a leaf blower to blow dust and debris out of the fan blades and away from the base of the unit. While you’re at it trim any bushes or vines that have grown around your a/c.
3. Check for ripped or missing insulation on the refrigerant lines. If the insulation is missing, the hot summer sun or severe weather can damage the lines and make your unit work harder to cool your home. Insulation sleeves can be purchased for only a few dollars at your local hardware store and easily replaced.
4. Check the age of your a/c. The lifespan of an air conditioning unit ranges from 12-15 years (give or take depending on frequency of use and regular maintenance). If yours is nearing the end of its life expectancy, it may be good to budget for a new unit.

If you don’t feel comfortable cleaning the unit yourself, many heating and cooling specialists offer specials in early summer for cleaning. Either way make sure you are doing regular maintenance. And next winter, be sure to cover your a/c with a tarp to keep it protected during the fall and winter months, so it can run more efficiently and last your family longer!

We inspect air conditioners during our home inspections to ensure your potential home is ready to keep your family cool! Call Matt for more information.

www.whitetailinspections.com

319-231-8436