As the seasons change from winter to spring, there are a few steps you will want to take before changing your thermostat from heating to cool air. To fully understand, let’s go over some of the AC basics.
Central air systems circulate cool air through a system of supply and return ducts that carry cool air from the air conditioner to the building. A central air system has three main sections: a condenser, blower and your home’s ductwork. The condenser is a large, box-like metal unit that is typically hidden behind the house or garage. It is designed to regulate the thermal reading of the refrigerant, which is typically Freon. This refrigerant goes back and forth from the outside unit to the house. The condenser pressurizes the Freon gas as it comes from the house and transforms it into a high-temperature liquid. In this new state, it rushes back to the house where the blower unit takes over.
As the transformed gas enters the blower unit, it’s changed back into gas and becomes colder. This gas is then pushed through a coil located in your ductwork. As air blows over the coil, it cools before it re-enters the house. The air drawn by your blower ductwork comes through return air vents in your home. As Freon finishes its work, it migrates back to the condenser where this cycle is repeated.
Refrigerant conduits are a sensitive part of your system that should be left to heating and air professionals, but there are some easy things you can do to keep your system in check while waiting on summer’s arrival.
1. Check Filter – Your filter is located at the blower unit and commonly situated where the return duct meets the condenser unit. Airflow is an essential part of your air conditioning system, so keeping your filter clean allows for the highest level of airflow.
2. Keep Outdoor Unit Clear – The outside condenser only works properly if there is enough space around the unit for proper airflow. Be sure that plants or debris are not clogging the unit. Give it at least two feet of unobstructed space.
3. Inspect for Water Damage – Condensation occurs and beads of moisture develop as warm air passes over the cooling coil. This moisture can be streamed to a gravity-fed drain or a pan located beneath the unit. Some pans have a pump system, which pushes the water through a pipe and into a drain when the water in the pan reaches a certain level. Check your unit for water damage, and if there is damage contact one of our professionals for advice.
4. Maintain Your Ductwork – Make sure there are no obstructions in or around the air vents in the home, check for mold, and adjust your ductwork dampers to redirect the air to the second floor.
Many families rely on their central air conditioning system during the hot summer months, and WG Speeks wants to ensure your transition from spring to summer is a smooth one! If you need an ac repair or air duct cleaning in Richmond, VA call a WG Speeks professional today at 804-276-2800.
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