Is your air conditioning system ready for summer in Tampa? As temperatures are rising, you must make sure you can stay cool inside your home when you want to.
Assess your central AC unit and see if it’s up to the task of handling the weather in Florida. Follow these quick AC tips to ensure it’s working properly.
Listen for Strange Noises
Your air conditioner should run quietly at its optimal condition. When you start hearing strange sounds coming from it, you should begin to worry. Banging, hissing, whistling, and such are signs of trouble.
A buzzing sound, for example, might be due to an obstructed airflow. If the unit has damaged blades, you may hear a raspy or humming sound.
AC units produce sounds at some capacity, but if you hear a noise you’re not familiar with, call a technician as soon as possible.
Keep Your Central AC Unit Clean
Whether you have a portable AC unit, a window AC unit, or an HVAC system, it’s important to keep it clean. The good news is you don’t have to hire a technician for the most part.
You should clean the condenser, vacuum the exterior fins, clean the drain tube, vacuum the indoor AC unit, and more. Check the filter and replace it as needed, as well. As dirt, pollen, dust, and debris build-up, it can hinder the airflow.
Be sure to consult your manual first to prevent damaging your system. If you’re not confident, you can always call a professional.
Check the AC Vents
Another part you should keep clean is the air conditioner vent. Use a pipe cleaner to wipe across the louvers.
You’ll likely pick up dust. If you find some debris, clear it to restore proper airflow.
If you pick up some black fuzz, however, it might be mold. In this case, you should have a professional inspect the vents in full.
Assess Its Cooling Ability
Turn on your system to see if it’s cooling down your home as it should, even in Tampa temperatures that average 90 degrees Fahrenheit in summer months. If your AC central unit is running but cooling slowly or not cooling at all, then there’s an issue with it.
Blocked airflow can be a culprit, as is a low refrigerant level. The problem might also be electrical.
You can check first the thermostat if it’s set to the correct temperature. Something you can also do is check the condenser and clean it if it’s dirty or blocked. However, you’ll need a professional if you’re dealing with a faulty compressor or low refrigerant levels.
Take Care of Your AC Unit
Proper cleaning and maintenance of your central AC unit cost much less than having it fixed. Keep it running smoothly and make sure it’s ready for hot summer months.
Above all else, contact us and consult a professional if you have any issues with your AC. Doing it yourself isn’t always the best approach as it can cost you more. Contact us here and we’ll help you with your AC needs.
