Testing your thermostat during AC maintenance can save up to 30% on energy costs. Many people wait for the first hot day to check their cooling systems. This reactive approach costs both comfort and money.
This piece walks you through everything to get your air conditioner ready for peak performance. The checklist covers filter inspection, component cleaning, refrigerant level checks, and electrical connection testing. These steps will give your home reliable cooling when temperatures start climbing.
Inspect and Prepare Your AC System
Safety should be your top priority before working on your AC system. You need to turn off power at both the condensing unit’s shutoff box and at the main breaker panel. This step will protect you from injuries while you check electrical components.
You should also check the refrigerant levels. Here are the warning signs of low refrigerant:
Hissing or bubbling sounds (suggesting leaks)
Frozen evaporator coils
Unexpectedly higher energy bills
Weak airflow from vents
Short cycling (turning on/off frequently)
The blower motor needs equal attention—watch out for grinding, squealing, or rattling sounds that often mean worn-out bearings or internal damage. A working blower will circulate air efficiently through your home and keep you comfortable during summer.
This detailed inspection will get your AC system ready for peak summer performance and help avoid unexpected breakdowns during the hottest months.
Clean Key Components for Better Efficiency
Your air conditioning system needs regular cleaning to work its best during summer. A dirty AC system works harder than necessary and uses up to 30% more energy. This extra strain could make your system fail earlier than it should.
A fin comb helps straighten any bent aluminum fins on your condenser unit and restores heat transfer capability. The outdoor unit needs at least two feet of clear space, so trim back any nearby plants.
Regular cleaning of these core components as part of your AC maintenance will reward you with better cooling, lower energy costs, longer equipment life, and cleaner indoor air. This makes your AC summer tune-up worth the effort.
Test and Tune for Summer Readiness
Your AC system needs proper testing after cleaning to deliver its best performance in summer. The thermostat acts as your cooling system’s brain. A simple test involves placing an accurate thermometer near your thermostat. Compare both readings after 15 minutes. Your thermostat needs adjustment if the readings differ by more than 3 degrees.
Your system’s electrical connections need attention beyond thermostat testing. Watch out for burning smells, short cycling, or unexpected utility bill spikes – these point to faulty wiring. Look for these issues:
Wires that are loose or damaged
Signs of connection corrosion
Voltage levels within range
Circuit breakers in working order
Room temperature differences often reveal air balancing problems. The solution lies in adjusting ductwork dampers. Remember, handles parallel to ducts indicate they’re fully open. You can also modify individual vent louvers.
Conclusion
A properly serviced AC system creates a healthy and comfortable living environment during winter’s challenging months. Your A/C service in Fresno experts know that these maintenance practices will improve your home’s comfort level and reduce your monthly utility bills significantly.
Ready to experience the maximum comfort and efficiency for your HVAC needs? Contact your HVAC contractor in Fresno, Maximum Air today at (559) 222-0733 and let our expert team take care of all your heating and cooling requirements. Don’t settle for anything less than the best – choose Maximum Air for superior service, reliable solutions, and unmatched customer satisfaction. Call us now and discover why we are the trusted choice for HVAC services in Fresno.
