Having a functioning AC unit is crucial for safety in the summer. However, there are steps you must take to ensure it remains as functional as it was when it was first installed by an HVAC contractor. After being subjected to heavy use for several months, your AC unit will require some maintenance. Here’s what you need to know. 

Why You Should Keep up With AC Maintenance in Last Summer

1. Neglect & Constant Use Causes Malfunctions

By late summer, the air filters have probably been used so much that they’ve become clogged with dirt, compromising their ability to keep your air clean and cool. The fan motor and its belt may also wear out, making them unable to properly push the air around. Finally, there may be a labored humming sound coming from the fan.

Clean the coils, filters, and fan by removing any large obstructions manually and gently dusting or hosing off the rest. Also, check to see if the refrigerant is depleted and needs to be refreshed.

2. Lack of Protection Leads to Damage

Your AC unit needs shade to prevent overheating, making it easier to push cool air into your home. Grow trees and shrubs so that their leaves guard the unit in their shadows. However, make sure that the vegetation is trimmed enough so no wayward plants get lodged into the filters. If you cook outside, smoke and food pieces can find their way into the unit, so check it weekly for stuck items and grime.

3. Maintenance Saves You on Energy Costs

If you leave the air filters clogged, or if you don’t refill the refrigerant, the evaporator coils could freeze when winter arrives. This significantly decreases the unit’s ability to efficiently meet your needs, forcing you to spend money on higher energy bills. You would likely need an HVAC contractor to help fix these issues, too, which means additional maintenance costs.

When you need a qualified HVAC contractor, contact Thomaston Oil in Litchfield County, CT. They have the expertise to keep your AC unit working smoothly. When the weather starts getting colder, they also offer oil delivery services. For more information about this HVAC contractor, call (860) 283-4878 or message them online.