What Should You Look for When Checking Your AC This Spring?

To make sure your home is effectively and efficiently cooled this summer, certain spring AC checks are vital. First and foremost, you should schedule annual air conditioner preventive maintenance by a qualified HVAC service technician at this time of year. This service includes a standard list of AC maintenance items, as well as a complete inspection to detect any incipient issues that could trigger major problems later in the season. In addition to ensuring that your system produces optimum cooling at the lowest monthly cost, an annual inspection is also usually required by the terms of the AC manufacturer’s warranty.

Here are some other spring AC checks that you can do yourself to make sure you’re ready for another hot South Texas summer:

• Make sure the outdoor AC unit is clear. If the unit was covered during the winter, remove the cover before starting the air conditioner for the season. Cut away any encroaching vegetation to create at least two feet of open space on all sides, to ensure proper ventilation.
• Check all supply vents and return vents throughout the house. Verify that all vents in every room are fully open and not obstructed by objects such as furniture or drapes. Closing vents in individual rooms can disrupt the airflow balance throughout the entire system, reducing system cooling performance and creating hot spots in the house.
• Review programmed thermostat settings. Have your cooling temperature preferences and daily schedule changed since last year? Are there more or fewer occupants in the house this summer? Check out the settings in the programmable thermostat and update as necessary.
• Be prepared to change the air filter every month during the cooling season. Use pleated cotton or polyester filters for the best filtration, and, for best results, choose filters with a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) of at least 8 and no more than 12. Filters are most economical if purchased in a multipack with enough filters to last through the summer.

For qualified service in the Coastal Bend area, including spring AC checks, contact the professionals at Mathews CCAC.