When you have invested in the best air conditioner, you may wonder whether you actually need a tune up. The truth is, yes! Imagine if you were preparing for a vacation. You make your plans for months and gather everything you need for the trip. Now can you imagine not ensuring your vehicle is ready for the long journey? Of course not; you check your tires, change the oil and make sure your vehicle is clean and tidy. Just like your vehicle, air conditioners need to be tuned up to ensure that it is ready for the heavy use of summer.
Checking the Refrigerant Pressures:
One of the most important aspects of an air conditioner tune up is checking the refrigerant pressure. The refrigerant is a coolant that is integral to the air conditioner’s ability to cool your home. It’s a little like the coolant you find in your vehicle. If your coolant level is low, your car can run hot, causing damage to the motor. When the coolant level is low in your air conditioner, it can cause damage to the compressor and other components. Additionally, a low refrigerant level could be costing you more money in utility bills as you will need to run the system for longer to adequately cool your home.
Cleaning Your Condenser Coil:
Another important reason for an air conditioner tune up is to clean the condenser coil. Air conditioning systems need proper ventilation to operate correctly. Unfortunately, the outside coil can become clogged with debris such as dirt, leaves, grass, sand and other garden debris. When your coil is filled with debris, it cannot adequately cool down the refrigerant and transfer heat out of your home. This creates less cooling, which means that your system will need to run for longer to reach your desired temperature setting. Additionally, when the coil becomes clogged, it can place greater strain on other components and could eventually trigger a cascade failure. Although it is possible to clean a condenser coil yourself, they can be vulnerable to damage if you are too heavy handed. Professional HVAC specialists have the experience, equipment, and expertise to ensure that your coil is completely cleaned to maintain optimum functionality.
Checking the Electrical Components:
Inside your air conditioner is a myriad of electrical components. These do not have an unlimited lifespan and can wear out over time. It is a good idea to take a proactive approach and replace any of these components before they fail at the least opportune moment. All air conditioner components use high voltage and require a professional to properly analyze them. The most obvious of these components is the condenser fan motor. This motor is responsible for drawing air through the condenser coil to cool down the refrigerant. Condenser fan motors are prone to failure due to the bearings becoming seized. A professional HVAC specialist has the experience to notice the subtle signs such as slow spinning fans or rust on the motor that can indicate it is beginning to fail. Although it may seem like just another chore, an air conditioner tune up could save you frustration and money. It ensures that your unit is operating at peak efficiency and reduces the risk of a breakdown when your air conditioner is needed most.