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The Best Air Conditioning Maintenance Check-Up

September 20, 2023

Air conditioning systems play an essential role in ensuring a comfortable and healthy indoor climate, especially during the hot summer months. Just like any other mechanical system, regular check-ups and maintenance are crucial to ensure they operate efficiently and prevent unexpected breakdowns.

A comprehensive AC maintenance plan can help detect minor issues before they become major problems, ensuring your system works optimally and lasts longer. Here are some key items that we inspect.

Inspect Outdoor Disconnect

The outdoor disconnect is an essential safety feature, enabling the complete electrical shutdown of your AC unit. Regularly checking it ensures that it is functioning correctly, which is a safeguard against electrical mishaps. It also guarantees that power can be swiftly and safely disconnected during emergencies or maintenance work, while providing safety for homeowners and technicians.

Inspect Sub-Cool and Super-Heat Readings

Sub-cool and super-heat readings provide a glimpse into how effectively your AC system cools. Accurate readings mean the refrigerant absorbs and releases heat appropriately. If these measurements are off, it could signal problems with the refrigerant or the system's overall cooling efficiency, potentially leading to more significant issues if not addressed promptly.

Inspect Compressor

Often regarded as the AC's (or Heat-pump’s) heart, the compressor pressurizes and circulates the refrigerant. Ensuring it runs correctly is pivotal for the system's overall operation. An underperforming compressor can drastically reduce efficiency, leading to elevated electricity bills and compromised comfort levels. Regular checks can prevent these concerns and assure its longevity.

Inspect the Condensing Fan Motor

This motor is instrumental in expelling absorbed heat from your home. A well-functioning fan ensures that heat releases effectively, which is crucial for optimal cooling. Any compromise in its operation can hinder the AC's cooling efficiency, leading to uneven temperatures or other more serious challenges. Routine checks guarantee the fan's continued effective performance.

Inspect Capacitors at the Condensing Unit

Capacitors provide the necessary initial power boost for the motor start-up and help maintain a consistent power supply. If a capacitor malfunctions, the AC might face start-up issues or operate inefficiently. Over time, capacitors can deteriorate or fail, so ensuring they're in good shape can prevent unexpected disruptions.

Inspect Refrigerant Levels

The right refrigerant level is the backbone of effective cooling. Any deviation in levels can hamper efficiency. Regular checks can also detect potential leaks, ensuring that the refrigerant circulates optimally and the AC cools effectively without causing any environmental concerns.

Inspect Low and High-Pressure Switches

These switches are safety mechanisms that prevent the compressor from operating under unsafe pressure conditions. They protect the system from potential damage, especially if there's a refrigerant leak or blockage. Regular monitoring of these switches guarantees they function as intended, ensuring the system's safe operation.

Inspect Condensing Unit Coils

These coils play an essential role in releasing heat absorbed from indoor air. Clean, undamaged coils are pivotal for effective heat transfer, optimizing the AC's efficiency. Dirt or damage can insulate coils, reducing their efficiency. Hence, routine checks ensure they remain in top condition.

Inspect Evaporator Coil

Situated in the indoor unit, this coil absorbs heat and removes moisture (humidity) from indoor air. A clean, well-maintained evaporator coil ensures maximum heat absorption. Neglecting it can lead to ice build-up, reduced cooling capacity, or increased energy consumption, making regular inspections crucial for optimal performance.

Inspect Refrigerant Piping Insulation

Well-insulated refrigerant pipes prevent energy loss. Insulation degradation can reduce the system's efficiency, leading to increased operational costs. Regular inspections ensure the insulation remains intact, promoting optimal system performance.

Inspect Primary and Secondary (if applicable) Condensate Drain(s)

Your AC also removes moisture from the air, which it then drains. Regularly ensuring the primary condensate drain is clear of blockages can prevent potential water damage or indoor humidity spikes. Proper drain functioning also ensures the AC's efficiency and the home's comfort.

Inspect Thermostats and Other Controls

Thermostats, control boards, zone boards (if applicable), relays, and contactors work together to ensure proper operation of you’re A/C system in all conditions. If any one of these fails, the systems cannot operate properly – or sometimes not at all. So, it’s important to check all of them.

Trust your system's health and performance to the experts. Reach out to Environmental Air Systems, Inc., today to guarantee your home remains cool and comfortable all year round.

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