AC Maintenance Tips

Air conditioning (AC) is one of those things you tend to take for granted—until it suddenly stops working during one of our stifling Oregon summers.

To avoid this unpleasant situation, be sure to take care of your air conditioning system by not only performing homeowner maintenance—but also by investing in an annual tune-up and inspection. These simple steps can improve efficiency and reliability.

Our team at Sun Glow Heating & Cooling wants to provide you with a quick checklist to keep the air conditioning system in your Portland home running at peak efficiency. Purchasing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment can be a significant expense, and we want to ensure you get the most value from your investment.

Air Conditioning Tune-Up and Inspection

If you have not had a professional inspection for a long time, it may be a good idea to get one. The US Department of Energy (DOE) reports good air conditioner maintenance can save you money and energy. Have one of our trained professionals check all connections and perform any necessary repairs that will help you save money and reduce your carbon footprint.

Air Conditioning Condenser

All central air conditioners have an outdoor component called a condenser. It’s important to keep this unit clear of any sticks, leaves, and other debris that may restrict airflow. Be sure everything is cleared away at the beginning of summer, and then check it periodically to keep the surrounding area clear. You can also take a garden hose and gently spray off the fan to remove any leaves or twigs caught in the blade, being mindful of the delicate fan fins.

Air Conditioning Air Filters

Changing your filters on a regular basis will also make your air conditioner’s job easier by allowing the air to effortlessly move through the unit. If your filters are clogged, the system will have to work harder to get the air to move, causing parts to wear down, and will decrease your systems efficiency.

Filters come with different ratings, called MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value), based on their ability to capture particles in the airflow. Our professionals can help you choose the right filter for your particular system. Also, remember to change your filter every 90 days—more so if you have pets or a smoker in your Oregon home.

Air Conditioning Repair Issues

If your air conditioner starts making an unusual sound, or if you detect an unusual odor whenever the motor switches on, call our repair team at Sun Glow for an inspection. Our experts can catch a minor problem before it becomes a major issue. We can inspect your air conditioning unit and ductwork to ensure everything is working properly in your Portland home.

Air Conditioning Coolant

Dealing with coolant problems should be left to one of our professionals. If you notice any leaks or suspect coolant levels are too low, you should schedule an appointment right away.

The coolant needs to be kept at a certain level and pressure, which our experts will check during the annual tune-up. Because coolants are typically regulated substances, you will need a professional to handle any refills. Remember that leaking coolant can be a significant environmental issue.

Air Conditioning Ice Buildup

If you notice any ice or snow building up on your evaporator coils, you likely have a circulation problem. Turn off your system and defrost it. Then check your filters, ducts, and other potential obstructions, and restart your system. If this does not fix the problem, give us a call so we can find the issue and fix it.

Thermostat

When your air conditioner continually turns on, then off, and then on again, this is known as short cycling. If you notice your air conditioner is cycling too frequently, it could be an issue with your thermostat settings.

If your thermostat is broken, consider replacing it with a smart thermostat that can help you operate your HVAC system more efficiently and help you save money in the long run. Of course, short-cycling can also be due to other issues as well, so give our experts a call to help diagnose your particular issue.

Call Your Air Conditioning Experts Today!

Call Sun Glow Heating & Cooling in Portland, OR, to schedule your air conditioner inspection today. We are happy to help you keep your air conditioning unit and other HVAC equipment working efficiently throughout the summer. Request service online or call