Mid-Summer Air Conditioner Care

Air conditioner maintenance isn’t a one-time job – your cooling system needs a little TLC throughout the summer season. Cincinnati temperatures will continue to rise over the next few months, so in order to keep your air conditioner in great working shape, take the time to perform a few key mid-summer air conditioner maintenance tasks.

Change your filter

Feel like you’ve heard this a few times from us already this summer? That’s because filter changes are so critical for maintaining system performance – plus, changing the filter is a quick and easy task most anyone can handle! Operating your air conditioner with a dirty filter restricts airflow and causes the system to work hard to cool your home or business; resulting in wear to your system and increased electric bills.

Most filters should be replaced every three months, but check the manufacturer’s recommendation for guidance regarding your specific furnace filter. Throughout the summer, make sure to inspect your filter about once per month, as during this season, the system is used heavily and the filter may need to be changed a bit sooner.

Condensate drain care

In addition to cooling air, your air conditioner removes quite a bit of moisture from the indoor air supply. This moisture is drained out of the system via the condensate drain line. If the drain line is clogged, condensation can back up, which can lead to water damage to your home, mold growth, and damage to your cooling system.

Check your system’s condensate drain monthly throughout the summer to verify moisture is effectively draining away from the unit. Water around the unit or standing water in the unit’s drip pan is often indicative of a clog; you can attempt to clear the clog yourself using a wet/dry vacuum or a stiff wire. Stubborn clogs may require professional assistance to resolve.

Keep the condenser clear

Mulch, grass clippings, and other outdoor debris are ever-present during the summer, and can build up on your outdoor condenser, restricting airflow through the unit. Nearby vegetation and weed growth can also prevent the system from operating effectively; buildup on and around the condenser forces your unit to work harder and consume more energy to facilitate cooling.

Gently clear debris off your unit using a vacuum or soft brush after mowing or as needed throughout the summer. Weed the two-foot area surrounding the condenser and do not plant shrubs or flowers in this zone, or store outdoor items too close.

If you have questions about these mid-summer air conditioner maintenance tasks, call Nelson Comfort today!

About The Author

Dan Detmer

Dan Detmer is the owner of Nelson Comfort. Dan was born into the heating and cooling industry, coming from a family of well respected HVAC contractors in Dayton, Ohio. After working in the family business, Dan decided to work for a local HVAC wholesale business helping local contractors grow their business. When he felt his heart moving him back into the residential and light commercial business, Dan joined the Mortimer Heating & Cooling team in Cincinnati, where he had called home and become part of the community for several years. After a short period of time Dan purchased the company and created what is today, Nelson Comfort. Today he operates a company based on integrity, honesty, and stellar customer service. If you have any questions feel free to tweet (at sign) NelsonComfort and we will get right back with you!