It’s a sweltering July afternoon in Baton Rouge. The sun is blazing, the humidity is soaring, and the air feels thick enough to cut with a knife.
You’re lounging on your favorite recliner, sipping on a tall glass of sweet tea, and thanking your lucky stars for the cool breeze of your trusty air conditioner. Suddenly, with a sputter and a groan, your AC gives out, leaving you to face the fierce Louisiana heatwave head-on.
So how do you prepare or prevent this scenario from happening to you? Check out these tips from our technicians about AC maintenance in Baton Rouge.
Change Filters
AC filters play a crucial role in ensuring the efficiency and longevity of your home’s air conditioner unit by trapping dust, dirt, and other airborne particles. When filters become clogged, they restrict airflow, forcing the system to work harder to cool your home. This leads to ballooning energy bills and increased damage to your AC unit.
You’ll want to change your AC filters every few months, although it will depend on the type of filter and the level of use. During peak summer months, when your air conditioning runs almost constantly, more frequent changes may be necessary.
High-quality filters can improve indoor air quality, making them especially beneficial for Louisiana households with allergy sufferers or pets.
Before inserting a new filter, make sure it matches your system’s specifications to ensure a proper fit and optimal performance. Once the new filter is in place, secure the compartment and turn the system back on.
Clean Up
Ensuring that your AC unit’s indoor and outdoor components are free from debris can significantly enhance efficiency and prevent potential issues that might arise from neglect.
Start by focusing on the outdoor condenser unit, which is often exposed to the elements and can quickly get clogged up with leaves, dirt, and other debris. To clean it, turn off the power to the unit for safety. Using a garden hose, gently rinse the exterior fins, working from the top down.
Avoid using a pressure washer, as the high pressure can break the delicate fins. For more thorough cleaning, you may need to remove the protective grille and use a soft brush to clear away any remaining debris.
Turn your attention to the indoor components. Dust and dirt can built up on your AC evaporator coil, lowering its ability to absorb heat.
To clean the coil, locate it within the indoor air handling unit, usually behind a panel. Brush off any accumulated dirt with a soft brush or use a vacuum to make it quicker.
If you’re feeling insecure about your air conditioner’s capabilities, look into your options for professional HVAC maintenance services.
Clear Drains
The condensate drain line removes any moisture your AC system manages to extract from the air. When this line becomes clogged, it can lead to water damage, increased humidity levels inside your home, and even system shutdowns.
It’s essential to periodically flush the drain line to prevent buildup. You can do this by pouring a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water or a commercially available AC drain cleaner into the drain line access point.
Allow your mixture to sit for about 30 minutes before flushing the line with water to ensure it is clear. This simple step can help prevent mold and algae growth, which are common causes of clogs.
Check Levels
The refrigerant makes your AC unit run. It’s responsible for absorbing and dissipating heat to keep your home cool. Low refrigerant levels can severely impact your system’s efficiency, leading to inadequate cooling and higher energy bills.
Checking and adjusting refrigerant levels is a task best left to professional HVAC technicians, as it involves handling chemicals and requires specialized tools. However, understanding the importance of this maintenance step can help you ensure it is part of your annual service routine.
Low refrigerant levels typically indicate a leak in the system, which can be detrimental if not addressed promptly. Signs of low refrigerant include:
- The AC running continuously without reaching the set temperature.
- Warm air blowing from the vents.
- Ice buildup on the evaporator coils.
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should schedule service immediately.
Listen For Noises
Unusual or persistent sounds coming from your AC unit can be early warning signs of potential problems that, if left unaddressed, could lead to costly repairs or system failures.
If you hear banging or clanking noises, it could indicate a loose or broken part within the compressor or blower assembly. This serious issue requires immediate attention, as loose components can cause further damage if they continue to move around.
Hissing sounds often signify a refrigerant leak, which can lead to decreased cooling efficiency and increased energy costs. Bubbling noises might indicate moisture in the refrigerant line. Both issues should be addressed promptly by a local HVAC expert to prevent further damage and ensure proper cooling.
Hire Help
While regular DIY maintenance can significantly contribute to the efficiency and longevity of your air conditioning system, hiring professional help is essential for ensuring comprehensive care, especially during the sweltering Baton Rouge summers.
Louisiana HVAC technicians possess the expertise, tools, and experience needed to perform thorough inspections, identify potential issues, and carry out precise repairs that go beyond the capabilities of most homeowners.
Many HVAC professionals have maintenance plans that include regular service visits, priority scheduling, and discounts on repairs. Enrolling in such a plan can provide consistent care for your AC system without the hassle of remembering to schedule appointments each year.
It also ensures that your system receives timely maintenance, keeping it in optimal condition year-round.
Use These Tips for AC Maintenance in Baton Rouge Today
With this guide to AC maintenance in Baton Rouge, you’ll have a cool home in no time.
Are you searching for Baton Rouge cooling services? ClimaServ offers transparent pricing and reliable services, all year round.
Contact us to get started.
