Annual preventive maintenance is vital to keep your home’s cooling system operating efficiently and reliably. The A/C maintenance performed by an experienced HVAC pro includes a long list of essential tasks that ensure your comfort and keep energy consumption in check. Here are some of the key steps taken during air conditioner maintenance.
Verifying Correct Refrigerant Levels
The refrigerant needs to be within manufacturer’s specifications to prevent strain on the compressor that can erode energy efficiency. If the level is low, there are likely leaks that must be located and fixed before more refrigerant is added.
Testing the Thermostat
The thermostat’s accuracy is checked and recalibrated if necessary to ensure it’s able to maintain your desired comfort level.
Inspecting the Coils
Both the evaporator and condenser coils are examined and cleaned. Dirt buildup on the A/C coils impedes crucial heat transfer, which increases the A/C’s workload and energy consumption. The rate of airflow over the evaporator coil is checked, too, to avert icing and a loss of cooling capacity.
Cleaning the Condensate Drain System
A technician makes sure the condensate collector pan is intact and in place, then flushes the drain lines to remove any algae or mold growth to prevent a condensate backup.
Servicing Motors and Moving Parts
The fan motors, blower assembly and other moving parts are inspected, cleaned and lubricated. If lubrication is lacking, moving parts have to work against greater resistance, or motor bearings may seize up. The fan belts are checked, too, as well as the motor’s amperage and voltage.
Checking System Controls
All the controls that keep the A/C operating safely and reliably are checked to make sure they’re fully functional. This includes the pressure controls, fuses, contactors, circuit board, relays and the service disconnect.
Inspecting the Electrical Components and Wiring
The various electrical connections are tightened and any corroded wiring is replaced. This is necessary to keep the air conditioner operating properly and reduce the risk of fire.
Contact us at Mowery Heating, Cooling and Plumbing to learn more about what to expect during A/C maintenance in your Indianapolis home.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Brownsburg, Indiana and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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