Performing regular AC maintenance is one of the best ways to keep your home both safe and comfortable. Although summertime temperatures in Oregon City, OR rarely rise above the mid-80s, your cooling equipment plays a vital role in regulating your indoor climate. To help you keep it functioning as it should, the following is a comprehensive overview of all the maintenance your AC needs.
Routine AC Filter Changes
Dirty air filters cause many AC problems. Although AC filters provide a moderate range of indoor air quality (IAQ) benefits, they’re meant to protect cooling equipment. These components minimize the amount of dirt, pollen, hair, and other particulates that settle on your air conditioner’s coils and other internal components. Without a clean filter, your AC could freeze over or overheat.
When filters are dirty, airflow throughout your HVAC system is compromised. Air conditioners have a hard time moving air through filters that are covered in thick mats of grime. Given the extra work that an air conditioner must do when its filter is dirty, overlooking this essential maintenance task can also cause a noticeable increase in your home energy bill.
To keep your air conditioner running like it should, check your AC filter monthly. Most AC filters should be changed every 30 to 90 days. However, if you have pets in your home or other IAQ-related concerns, you may need to change your filter more often.
Clean-up at the Outdoor Condenser
It’s also important to ensure good airflow at your air conditioner’s outside condenser unit. This unit should have no less than two feet of clearance around its perimeter. In spring, you should check your AC condenser monthly and should cut back any grass, branches, or shrubs that are encroaching upon its space. This is also a good time to check whether rodents, insects, or other pests have taken shelter in the condenser.
Annual Tune-up Service From a Licensed Professional
There are many essential maintenance tasks that should only be performed by a licensed HVAC company. Even simply opening and touching certain moving components within your air conditioner can automatically void its manufacturer warranty. All air conditioners require tune-up service annually. To get the best results from professional AC maintenance, homeowners are generally advised to schedule this service at the start of spring or just before summer arrives.
We’re committed to helping residents of Oregon City, OR maintain clean and high-functioning cooling equipment. We offer furnaces, air conditioners, and indoor air quality service. We also provide ductwork, water heaters, and ductless mini-splits. Get in touch with Anderson Heating & Cooling today to schedule your annual AC preventative maintenance.
