5 Things To Do To Get Your HVAC System Running This Summer

If it has been months since you used your HVAC system, before you flip on the cool air inside of your home, you are going to want to do a few things to ensure the system is ready. Then, once it is running, there are a few things you are going to want to check on as well.

#1: Basic Condenser Cleaning

The condenser is the outdoor portion of your unit. You are going to want to give it a basic cleaning. You can do that by turning off the power to the unit and getting out a garden hose. Spray the hose inside the unit, pushing the water outside the unit. This will help remove the dust that gets stuck inside the unit and push that dirty dust outside. Don't spray the water into the unit; that will push the dust further inside the unit. You don't need to use any chemicals; just a simple water washdown will do the trick.

#2: Remove Covers

Many people put covers over their HVAC units in the winter months to protect the unit. However, the presence of a cover can result in premature rust due to moisture build-up. It is best to leave your unit exposed. If you do have a cover on your unit, you need to remove it before starting your unit again. You want air to flow freely around the unit.

#3: Trim Back Plants

If you have foliage around your outdoor condenser, you will want to get out the cutting shears and trim back any vegetation that is right next to the unit. You will want to give the unit at least a solid foot of free space to allow air to flow uninterrupted into the unit. Be sure to check on foliage growth through the year, and trim things back when they get too close to the unit.

#4: Check Copper Lines

When you turn on your unit, you will want to find the large copper lines that come from your unit. Take the thicker of the two copper lines and feel it. It should feel as cold as a refrigerator. A cold line will let you know that the refrigerant is working correctly and that your unit is ready to cool your house down.

#5: Check the Air from the Fan

When you stand next to the outdoor condenser and the unit is running, the fan should be pushing out air. That air should feel warmer than the outdoor air. If that air feels warmer than the outside air, that means that your house is being cooled off properly.

Before using your HVAC unit to cool off this spring and summer, wash down the outdoor condenser unit, remove any covers, and trim back the foliage. Once you start your unit, make sure the condenser fan is pushing out warm air and that the copper line feels cold. Finally, bring in a professional to inspect and take care of your unit at least once a year. Professional HVAC services can check your unit over and perform basic maintenance. 

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