4 Tips for Preparing Your Air Conditioning System for Use after Winter

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As the temperatures start to warm up, the desire to turn on the air conditioner will increase. However, it is important that you prepare your system for work after it's had months on break. Here are some things to do before you first use your system during the warmer months.

Change the Filters

Even though you have not used your air conditioning system during the cold weather, you still have to change the filter before using it. The filter helps to keep dust and other debris from being blown out through your system. Over the cold months, dust can collect in the filters and your unit. 

Remember to change the filter again in 30 to 60 days after you start using your system. How frequently you change it depends largely on how much you use the system.

Clean the Indoor and Outdoor Vents

When the indoor and outdoor vents of your air conditioning system are dirty, your system will have to work harder to cool your home. As a result, you could find yourself with higher energy costs than normal. 

To avoid this problem, simply clean the vents before using the system. When cleaning the outdoor vent, make sure you remove all of the grass, leaves, and dirt from it. 

Clear the Drainage Pipe

Unless you cleaned the drainage pipe after you last used the air conditioning system, there is a good chance that you have sludge or grime built up in it. Not only is this aesthetically  unappealing, but it can lead to a backup of water drained from the air conditioner. 

A backup could cause the air conditioning system to malfunction and exhibit signs, such as shooting water from the vents. You can use a wet-dry vacuum to clean the sludge from the pipe.

Check the Refrigerant Levels

Contact a HVAC technician to have your refrigerant levels checked. Low refrigerant levels means that your air conditioning system is not cooling your home properly. In a push to try, your system will run longer, which means higher utility bills. 

If the refrigerant levels are low, you most likely have a leak. Refrigerant does not run out in ideal conditions. 

Taking care of your air conditioning system now can mean avoiding costly repairs later. It also helps to ensure that the air that is being pushed into your home is of good air quality. Talk to your HVAC technician about other steps you can take to ready your system. Check out the site.


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