After a long winter, most New Jersey homeowners are chomping at the bit to start scheduling beach days, barbecues, and backyard bum-arounds. But something that is equally important as a full calendar of summer activities, is making sure your cooling system is prepared to keep your home cool throughout the entirety of the hot summer months.
Your air conditioning system plays a pivotal role in your summer comfort, and Princeton Air is here to help you get ahead of the heat. We've put together a comprehensive summer AC maintenance checklist to keep your cooling system running efficiently and effectively. Some of these AC efficiency and maintenance tips are things you can do yourself, and others are tasks a professional air conditioning technician should handle - but all of them will help keep your cooling system running effectively, while wasting as little energy as possible.
1. Replace Your Air Filters
One of the simplest, yet most crucial tasks when it comes to cooling system maintenance is replacing the air filters in your HVAC system. Air filters trap dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, preventing them from circulating through your home. Over time, these filters become clogged, which diminishes air quality and forces your AC to work harder, increasing energy consumption and reducing its lifespan.
Changing your air filters should be done every 30-90 days, especially during high-use seasons like summer. A fresh filter not only improves air quality but also enhances the efficiency of your air conditioner.
2. Clear the Area Around Your Outdoor Unit
The outdoor component of your air conditioner, the compressor, needs adequate and unobstructed airflow. Ensure that there is at least a 12-inch clearance around the unit. Remove any leaves, twigs, and debris that have gathered during the off-season. Check for overgrown vegetation and trim any bushes or branches that impede airflow.
3. Check Your Thermostat
The thermostat connected to your air conditioner is much like the brain of your cooling system - telling your air conditioning unit when and how hard to work. Before the peak of summer heat, test your thermostat to ensure it's working correctly:
- If your thermostat is battery operated, ensure it has a fresh set of batteries
- Clean off any dust or debris that has accumulated on your thermostat with a damp cloth to ensure proper electrical operation of thermometers and controls.
- Perform a cooling test to make sure your AC turns on, and that it reaches the desired temperature in a timely manner
Spring is a great time to consider upgrading to a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats can learn your schedule and temperature preferences, making it easier to keep your home cool while saving energy when you’re away. Moreover, some models offer the convenience of adjusting settings remotely via a smartphone app, adding a layer of flexibility to your daily routines.
4. Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance
While there are many aspects of air conditioner maintenance that you can handle on your own, a professional tune-up is essential to prepare your system for summer. At Princeton Air, our technicians conduct a thorough inspection and maintenance process that includes:
- Cleaning the evaporator and condenser coils: Dirty coils reduce the system’s ability to cool your home and cause the system to run longer, increasing energy costs and reducing the system's life.
- Checking refrigerant levels: Proper refrigerant levels are crucial to your AC’s cooling power. Low levels can lead to reduced efficiency and can cause the system to work harder, potentially leading to more significant issues like compressor damage.
- Inspecting and tightening electrical connections: This is crucial as loose connections can lead to shorts and other electrical hazards.
- Lubricating moving parts: This reduces friction and helps your system run more smoothly and quietly.
5. Clean Ducts and Vents
Consider hiring a professional duct cleaning service if you notice significant buildup, which can help improve airflow and efficiency. Dust and debris can accumulate in your ducts and can be circulated through your home when the system is in use.
6. Consider a Maintenance Plan
Regular maintenance is key to the longevity and efficiency of your air conditioner. Joining the Princeton Air Club Membership is an excellent way to ensure your air conditioning system is maintained without the hassle of remembering to schedule services or facing unexpected high costs. With our Gold and Platinum Plans, members enjoy significant benefits including discounts on AC repairs, lifetime warranties on parts, and guaranteed priority service. Our comprehensive 12-point tune-ups for heating and air conditioning ensure your systems operate efficiently throughout the year. Moreover, our plans offer financial predictability with reduced or eliminated service charges and a loyalty credit system that contributes to future purchases. By entrusting your AC maintenance to Princeton Air, you can relax knowing that all aspects of your system's upkeep are professionally handled.
7. Consider AC Replacement During Spring
No air conditioner lasts forever. The average life expectancy of an air conditioner is between 15-20 years. If your system is nearing this age, it might be time to consider an AC replacement. Modern air conditioners, including heat pumps and ductless mini-split systems, are more efficient and can significantly reduce your home's energy consumption. Heat pumps are especially versatile as they provide both cooling and heating, making them an excellent upgrade for your home's HVAC system. Ductless mini splits also offer a flexible solution for homes without conventional ductwork, allowing for individual room control that can further optimize energy use and comfort. At Princeton Air, we can help you choose the right model for your needs and budget, and our team can install it with minimal disruption to your daily life.
Get started today by contacting Princeton Air and enjoy a cool, comfortable home all summer long. Call 609-779-2030 to schedule AC maintenance
JS Needham-Master HVACR Lic. # 3980 | M Burt-Plumbing Lic. # 8389 | NJHIC # 13VH00255200 | PAHIC # PA001066
