Unlike most of the country that is still dealing with the remnants of an especially harsh winter, we, here in Arizona, are already enjoying balmy daytime and evening temperatures. Soon, it will be time to once again turn on that air conditioning system. Are you ready?
It can be incredibly frustrating when you want to turn on your air conditioner on a hot Arizona afternoon and it doesn’t work. The good news is that this can be prevented with these four simple steps that you can take now before we hit triple digits. Here’s what you need to do:
Test the System
A large percentage of system failures occur when they are turned on for the first time after a long break. Why wait to find out if your system has a problem when you actually need it. Today, turn down the temperature on your thermostat and flip your switch to “cool.” Make sure you hear it turn on, and then check to make sure that you feel cool air coming from the vents in each room. If not, you may need to do some troubleshooting. It could be something as simple as a blown fuse, or you might need to call out a technician.
Clean Or Replace Your Filters
A/C filters get dirty very quickly in Arizona. A fast moving dust storm or even a light breeze can kick up enough particulates to clog your system. This causes your system to work harder and increases your energy consumption. Translation – higher electricity bill!
Keeping your filter clean can cut energy use by 5 to 15 percent and increase the lifespan of your air conditioner. In desert regions such as the Phoenix metro area, it is highly recommended that you clean or replace your filter every month or even more frequently if you have pets that shed or allergy/asthma sufferers in your home.
Check Your System’s Drainage
Air conditioners tend to get clogged over time. This is particularly true for those with outside condensers. This happens when dirt, leaves, and other debris get built up in the drain pan and around the unit. When an air conditioner can’t drain properly, not only can it impede water flow, it can cause mold and mildew to grow inside the hose. This can impact your indoor air quality, so it’s definitely worth your time and effort!
Get A Tune Up
A seasonal maintenance tune-up isn’t just a good idea. It’s really a must for keeping your air conditioner working at optimal performance, and in some cases, necessary for maintaining your system’s warranty. At Bruce’s, we highly encourage our customers to take advantage of our spring tune-up cooling service. We make it affordable at only $59 and convenient. Call us today to schedule your tune up!
