With summer near, it is time to start preparing your AC system even though you may not be thinking about it. Doing some of the maintenance that your AC needs now, can help to reduce problems with your air conditioning not working during the hottest days of the year. Some of the maintenance that needs to be done can be simple things like changing the filter; you may also want to have the compressor checked and coolant added to your AC. Here are three tips to getting maintenance done to your AC before the cooling season starts this year:

1. Remove Cover Of Outdoor Unit And Cleaning

If you have an outdoor heat pump, you may have it covered for the winter months. Spring is a good time to remove the cover and clean the unit. Before you do this you will want to turn off the main power to your AC, which is usually a main switch located near the air conditioner.  With the power off, you can use a diluted detergent and a garden hose to clean off the coil of the unit and remove any debris.

2. Changing The Air Filter And Vacuuming The Coil

You will also want to change the air filter and evaporator coil inside your home. You can use a vacuum to vacuum any debris inside the ductwork. This is sometimes easy if you have access near the air filter. Sometimes, the evaporator coil can be located inside the ductwork, which you may need to have the help of a professional HVAC technician to clean it.  You can try to clean as much dust out yourself by using vacuum cleaner attachments to vacuum as far as you can inside the ductwork.

3. Inspecting Plumbing And Parts For Problems

Your AC also has plumbing for the coiling lines and condensation. When it is warm enough outside, you will want to try to turn on your AC and inspect these parts. Look for any lines that have ice on them, which is a sign that the condensation coil needs to be cleaned. If you have drainage lines for the condensation that your AC produces, inspect them for any leaks.  You can also look for any parts that have obvious damage. An HVAC technician can also help you with this and do a thorough inspection of your AC to ensure that there are no small repairs that need to be done.

Doing some of these maintenance tasks to your air conditioner now, can help to reduce repair costs later. If you need to have your HVAC checked and repairs done, contact a professional HVAC service to ensure that you have cooling when you need it most. To learn more, visit Davidson's Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning.