What To Do With Your Air Conditioner When Summer Ends
As the last traces of summer fade away, it’s time to bid farewell to your hardworking air conditioner and shift your attention to heating your home. The dropping temperatures provide the perfect opportunity to turn off the AC without any discomfort. But before you simply switch it off and forget about it until next year, it’s essential to properly close down your air conditioner to ensure its longevity and prepare it for another successful run in the future. Dive into the following end of summer AC tips to discover effective ways to wind down your AC as summer draws to a close.
Giving Your Air Conditioner a Proper Farewell
Contents
- Giving Your Air Conditioner a Proper Farewell
- Common Air Conditioner Issues to Watch For
- Frozen Air Conditioner Coils
- Dirty HVAC Filters
- Clogged Air Conditioner Drains
- Post-Summer Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips
- Listen to Your Air Conditioning Unit
- Inspect Air Conditioner Connections
- Clean the Air Conditioner Coils
- Verify the Thermostat
- Seek Professional Air Conditioner Maintenance
- Consider an Upgrade to Your Cooling System
- Schedule a Heating System Tune-up
- In Conclusion
- Contact Point Bay Fuel for all Your HVAC Needs
In this article, we delve into crucial topics that homeowners should consider to take excellent care of their cooling systems when the season comes to a close.
Review Your Energy Bills
Take a moment to gather all the documents related to your energy consumption over the past few months. Compare these figures with the bills from the previous year. Do you notice any significant spikes in energy usage? Are the changes reasonable based on your patterns of usage and the appliances you own? If you spot an unexplained increase in energy consumption, it’s wise to consult with an HVAC technician for expert guidance.
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Document Air Conditioning Issues
Keeping a record of any AC issues you encounter throughout the summer can be a smart move. If you haven’t started a log yet, now is the perfect time to begin one, noting down any problems you can recall. These notes will come in handy during annual maintenance visits, helping you keep the technician informed about any concerns or glitches.
Skip the Air Conditioner Cover
As winter approaches, the idea of covering your outdoor cooling unit for protection may seem appealing. However, it can lead to unforeseen consequences, such as trapping moisture and causing damage to the internal components. Rest assured that your unit is designed to withstand winter conditions. Instead, ensure that the compressor’s surroundings are clean and free of debris.
Common Air Conditioner Issues to Watch For
Summer puts immense stress on air conditioning systems, as they tirelessly work day after day to keep your home cool. Therefore, when fall arrives, it’s crucial to check for any common AC problems that may have developed over the past few months. Detecting issues early on allows for prompt solutions.
Frozen Air Conditioner Coils
Over time, airborne dirt can accumulate on the coils, forming a thick layer of insulation. This buildup of dirt prevents efficient heat transfer and can result in frozen surfaces. If you notice signs of freezing, it’s best to seek the intervention of a professional technician.
Related Article: 7 Steps On How To Unfreeze Your AC Coils
Dirty HVAC Filters
Air filters are responsible for capturing dirt, and a certain amount of buildup is expected as they perform their job. However, excessive dirt can restrict airflow, compromising the system’s efficiency. Therefore, it’s recommended to change the filters every month or so.
Clogged Air Conditioner Drains
The condensation that forms around the cold coils should flow freely through the internal drains. Unfortunately, dirt and debris can cause clogs, resulting in water retention and eventual overflow. If you observe any leaks from your air conditioning system, it may indicate a clogged drain that requires attention from an HVAC contractor.
Related Article: 10 Reasons Why Your AC Unit Isn’t Blowing Cool Air
Post-Summer Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips
Make it a habit to conduct air conditioner maintenance tasks after summer. While you can certainly tackle some of these tasks yourself, seeking the assistance of a professional technician often yields better results. Professionals possess the expertise to identify symptoms that amateurs might overlook and can swiftly address any necessary HVAC repairs.
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Listen to Your Air Conditioning Unit
Turn on your air conditioner solely to listen to its operation. Unusual noises are often indicative of underlying issues within the cooling unit. Ideally, a well-functioning AC emits a consistent and quiet hum. If you hear any clicking, banging, wheezing, screeching, or other loud sounds, it’s essential to investigate further to identify the source of the problem.
Inspect Air Conditioner Connections
Devote attention to the air conditioner’s electrical system. Before starting, remember to switch off the power to avoid accidents, or better yet, let a trained HVAC technician handle this task for safety reasons. Technicians will examine the continuity of connections and the condition of wires, replacing any damaged sections to prevent fires and other hazards. Additionally, they can rectify electrical issues like faulty capacitors and short circuits.
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Clean the Air Conditioner Coils
Even if the coils aren’t frozen, it’s crucial to clean them thoroughly to prevent dirt from adhering to the surface. Additionally, remove any debris that may have entered the system. Utilize a vacuum cleaner to eliminate foreign materials from the fins. Outside the unit, trim nearby bushes and weeds to reduce the accumulation of debris.
Verify the Thermostat
The thermostat plays a vital role in controlling the air conditioner’s operation, so it’s essential to ensure its accuracy. Replace the batteries if they are running low and adjust the unit’s programming from summer settings to fall settings. Each season demands its own optimal usage pattern.
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Seek Professional Air Conditioner Maintenance
If all these tasks feel overwhelming, don’t panic. You’re not meant to handle everything alone. Reach out to Point Bay Fuel for assistance. Our team of certified HVAC technicians can assist you with all the items on your checklist. Our professionals can conduct thorough check-ups, provide immediate solutions, and offer valuable advice to prevent future cooling system issues.
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Consider an Upgrade to Your Cooling System
As summer comes to an end, it’s worth evaluating whether it’s still viable to keep your old air conditioner. Assess its age—most units have a lifespan of around 10-15 years with proper maintenance. If your unit is nearing the end of its lifespan and experiencing frequent breakdowns, it might be a wise decision to explore the possibility of an air conditioner replacement. By doing so, you can alleviate concerns about mounting HVAC repair costs. A new cooling system will operate flawlessly, offering enhanced features and improved energy efficiency.
Schedule a Heating System Tune-up
With temperatures dropping, winter is rapidly approaching. Once you’ve addressed your air conditioner, shift your focus to preparing your heating system. Schedule a professional furnace or boiler tune-up to ensure it’s in optimal condition for the coming months. Resolve any issues in the fall, so you won’t have to worry about a malfunctioning furnace when the cold weather sets in. It’s also a good idea to stock up on fuel in your oil tank.
In Conclusion
Air conditioners work tirelessly to keep us cool and comfortable during scorching summers. As summer bids adieu, it’s essential to pay attention to your cooling system. By conducting fall maintenance, you can ensure that your air conditioner serves you well for years to come. If you find the process overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek the assistance of Point Bay Fuel, a trusted provider of HVAC services. Our certified technicians can conduct thorough check-ups, provide immediate solutions, and offer valuable advice to prevent future cooling system issues.
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Contact Point Bay Fuel for all Your HVAC Needs
When it comes to superior heating and cooling services in Ocean County and Monmouth County, New Jersey, look no further than Point Bay Fuel. Our team of highly trained and certified technicians can provide excellent HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each technician possesses extensive knowledge and experience to expertly service your HVAC system.
Point Bay Fuel guarantees the most competitive pricing for heating and cooling services in the area. Our maintenance services not only enhances your comfort and energy efficiency but also reduces your heating and cooling costs. Should you require an HVAC repair or replacement, you can trust our knowledgeable technicians to recommend the best solution for your home while staying within your budget. We stand behind all our work with a satisfaction guarantee. To schedule a service appointment, give Point Bay Fuel a call today. Be sure to ask about our free, in-home estimates. Call now!
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