With temperatures across the northeast on the rise in recent weeks, it seems Spring may come early this year. Your air conditioning system is vital to your family’s comfort during the spring and summer months. 

Before you turn on your cooling system, a bit of maintenance is often needed to get it running properly:

Clean or replace the AC filters

The easiest thing you can do to make sure your AC runs efficiently is to change your air filters. Old filters can restrict and recirculate dust into your home. Your A/C most likely shares ductwork with the furnace, and also a filter. Ideally, you should replace your filters every 2–3 months.  

Clear your outdoor unit

Ideally, your outdoor unit is protected through the winter by a cover or tarp to prevent the collection of debris. But if that is not the case, your outdoor unit may have leaves and debris inside. Clean it out and wash the coils with water to ensure that the unit can efficiently collect heat from inside the room.

Check electrical connections

Over time, wires can become loose and cause your system to shut down. Check these connections to ensure your system keeps running through the summer. 

Check the refrigerant lines

The refrigerant tubes or pipes run from the evaporator on the air handler to the condenser outside. They are usually covered with foam insulation to prevent inefficiencies. Proper insulation will improve the efficiency of the system. If insulation is missing, cracked, or peeling, call an HVAC expert. 

Get yearly service

It is a good idea to have an HVAC technician service your system once or twice a year. A service technician can get your unit up and running for the summer and prevent any potential problems.