Air conditioners. They make our lives better and the Florida heat more bearable. However, it’s important to remember that even when it feels like we’re living right on the sun’s surface, at some point during our “winters”, it’ll actually cool down outside. In 2016 and 2017, temperatures in Central Florida area dropped down to the low 30s. While that may be considered a heat front in the northeast, to us, it can feel quite bitter.
This is why you should make it a point to take preventive measures to ensure a pleasant controlled climate.
7 Fall Preventive HVAC Maintenance Tips
1. Install a programmable thermostat.
During the later months of the year, temperatures tend to fluctuate more often. You can wake up to a morning in the 60s, only to have the afternoon remind you that, hey, you’re still living in Florida. To avoid the constant guessing games, preset your thermostat to adjust its temperature as the day progresses. This will keep everyone comfortable and promote energy efficiency.
If you already have a programmable thermostat, adjust the temperatures to the oncoming season.
2. Replace the air filters.
Frequency in changing them varies depending on your household circumstances. However, it’s a good rule of thumb to schedule a time in your cell phone or on your calendar so that you don’t forget to do it. Keeping them clean ensures that air flows the way it should, thus maximizing AC efficiency.
3. Clean the condenser unit.
This is the part of your air conditioning system that’s outside your home. Because of its outdoor location, it can become caked with dust, or covered with grass, pollen, and fallen leaves. In the aggregate, this obstructs your air conditioner’s airflow. For a video tutorial on how to properly clean your condenser unit, click here. And remember to turn off the power source to your AC before getting started.
4. Turn it off every now and then.
Once the temperature starts dropping, give your air conditioning system a break from the constant running it endured during the summer months. You don’t have to turn it off throughout the entire fall. By utilizing your ceiling fans, you’ll be able to raise the temperature on your thermostat by 4 degrees without having any effect on your comfort. Giving your air conditioner a break every now and then will extend its lifespan.
5. Inspect the refrigerant lines.
If you walk outside to your AC’s condenser, you’ll find there are two copper lines that go into the bottom of the unit. You can check whether the lines have enough Freon simply by touching the insulated line: If it’s cold to the touch and there’s condensation on it (it’s “sweating”), your air conditioner has enough refrigerant. If it’s not cold to the touch, call an HVAC technician as soon as possible, since extended exposures to refrigerant leaks could be poisonous.
6. Schedule an energy audit.
This is another way to ensure energy efficiency and to protect your home’s furniture and structure. This is because humidity causes wood frames to expand and contract, leaving air leaks around windows and door frames. They are so small, you may not notice them; but when you turn on your air conditioner, the cool air will seep through. As a result, your energy bills will go up. A professional energy audit will include a check for this type of issue, as well as evaluate your home’s insulation. It usually costs between $300 and $500, yet could save you between 30% and 50% on your home energy bills.
7. Schedule preventive maintenance.
This is one of those things on “To-Do” lists across the country that falls through the cracks. However, regular preventive maintenance (at least once a year) ensures your system is running efficiently and will allow a technician to foresee potential problems before they happen (such as a refrigerant leak or a faulty motor, compressor, or most any other part). Having an HVAC technician inspect your air conditioner will ensure your home remains cool when it should be cool and warm when it should be warm. It also ensures that your energy bills remain stabilized throughout the year, instead of increasing significantly due to an inefficient system.
Contact Colman Heating & Air for AC Service in Brevard County
At Colman, we can assist you with your air conditioning issues. We also have a 24/7 AC emergency line. Call us if you need assistance ASAP, to schedule routine HVAC maintenance, or for repairs or installations.
24-HR Emergency Service (321) 269-4565
