Depending on where you live, it may feel like you only have two seasons to work with: summer and winter. When it's cold, you need your heater to work properly. When it's hot, you need that air conditioner. When your heater isn't working properly, you can bundle up to keep warm while you wait for repairs. However, when your air conditioner isn't working, there's not much you can do once the temperatures hit the danger zone. That's why it's so important that you make sure your air conditioner is ready to go as soon as summer arrives. Here are four important steps you should take before you turn your air conditioner on this summer.
Make the Drain Line a Priority
Before you turn your air conditioner on this summer, you need to clean the drain line. A clogged drain line can cause more problems than just foul odors. A clogged drain line can cause serious damage to your home, especially if the clog causes leaking into your home, which can happen if your AC is mounted on your roof. Unfortunately, if the drain line leaks into your roof for too long, you can sustain water damage, which can cause your roof to collapse. To avoid minor problems like foul odors, and major problems like a roof collapse, make your drain line a priority. Prevent clogs by cleaning your drain line before you start your AC this summer.
Ensure the Wiring is Insulated
When it comes to caring for your AC, and avoiding breakdowns and serious risks to your home, you need to make sure that the wiring is properly insulated. The freezing temperatures can cause the insulation to become brittle, which can cause the wires to become exposed. Unfortunately, if the wires are exposed, you could be looking at system failure, or even an electrical fire. To make sure the wires are properly protected, and ready for action in the summer, be sure to inspect the insulation.
Top Off the Refrigerant
Low refrigerant levels might seem like a minor issue, but it can actually be quite serious. Without adequate refrigerant, your air conditioner won't function properly. First, your system may overheat, which will cause your air conditioner to malfunction. Second, inadequate levels of refrigerant could cause your compressor to freeze, which will shut down your air conditioner. To avoid those issues, it's important that you top off the refrigerant before you start using your air conditioner again.
Don't let your air conditioner fail you this summer. Follow the tips provided here to make sure your air conditioner is ready when you are, and contact an air conditioning repair service if you encounter any serious issues.
