Temperatures are starting to rise in the Outer Banks. Soon it will be time for summer BBQs and mornings at the beach. For homeowners in the Outer Banks, N.C. this is the time of year when air conditioning units are used the most. This is especially true for rental properties.
It’s important that you’re well prepared for summer. The following AC maintenance should be performed before using your HVAC system.
Air Filters
Clogged or dirty air filters make your HVAC system work extra hard to cool your home. This raises your energy bills, decreases the system’s ability to cool your home, and causes damage over time. It’s crucial that you check the air filters at least once a month and prior to the first time you turn on the system. You’ll probably need to change the air filters every three months or more if you have pets.
Condenser Coils
The condenser coils of your HVAC system are located in the outdoor unit. These coils are responsible for transferring heat from inside your home so that the refrigerant can work properly. Over time, these coils can become caked with dust and debris. This reduces their ability to properly transfer heat, making your system less effective at cooling your home. Condenser coils can be cleaned with a soft-bristled brush, pressure washer, or even a hose. As a stand-alone service, cleaning condenser coils can be performed every 3 – 5 years.
Condensate Drain Line
Your air conditioning unit keeps your home comfortable by pushing cool air in and removing humidity. The moisture collected from the air travels out of your home through the condensate drain line. Without proper maintenance, this line can develop mold and become clogged. When this occurs, the water collected by the system can travel back inside your home and leak. This can cause significant water damage.
Keep the condensate drain line clear by running some bleach through it. This will help kill any mold inside the line as well.
Check Your Thermostat
Getting your HVAC system ready for the summer also means you have to check for a faulty thermostat. Make sure that the batteries are working properly and eliminate any dust on your thermostat. Make sure your thermostat doesn’t give off any false readings by due to close proximity of major appliances or any other sources that could influence its abilities to give a true temperature reading. When you switch from heating to cooling, check the schedule on your thermostat. This is a great time to make the necessary changes to maximize the efficiency of your HVAC unit.
Schedule Maintenance Service
Keeping your HVAC system in good working shape means you’ll never be without the cool comfort of your home. A maintenance service provided by a professional HVAC technician can help you locate issues and ensure that your unit is in excellent shape when you need it this summer. This helps extend the lifespan of your system and reduces the need for expensive repairs.
Air Handlers OBX offers HVAC system maintenance, repairs, and replacement in Outer Banks, NC. Please contact us to schedule a maintenance appointment.
