When your air conditioner starts acting up, opening the unit and fixing it yourself is tempting. This is especially true after watching a few videos online. HVAC systems are more complicated than they seem, though, and messing with the wrong part can worsen things or even put your safety at risk. That’s why the experts at True Climate Heat + Air in Edmond, OK, always encourage homeowners to know their limits regarding AC maintenance so they can stay safe while keeping their system running smoothly.
Changing Your Air Filter is Easy
If there’s one thing you can confidently handle regarding your air conditioner, it’s changing the air filter. It’s simple and quick and significantly affects how well your system runs. When your filter gets clogged, it blocks the airflow. That means your system has to work harder to cool your home. You might notice the air doesn’t feel as cold, or it takes much longer to cool down after a hot afternoon.
Swapping out the filter is something you can do in just a few minutes. Most filters slide right out from the slot near your indoor unit. You check the size, grab a replacement at the store, and slide the new one in with the arrows pointing the right way. If you have pets or someone in the house has allergies, changing it every month can significantly help. If your home stays pretty clean, you might get away with every two to three months. You’ll notice that your air feels fresher, and your system won’t have to work as hard to keep you comfortable.
Clearing Around Your Outdoor Unit
Your outdoor unit is like the lungs of your air conditioning system. It needs room to breathe. If weeds, leaves, or tall grass crowd it, that can block airflow. When that happens, the system struggles to pull in air and starts working overtime. You might hear it running longer than usual, or your house won’t cool down like it used to. All that extra work can wear down your system faster and push up your electric bill.
You don’t need to be an expert to give your outdoor unit a little breathing room. Grabbing some gloves and clearing away debris is something you can tackle on a Saturday morning. You want about two feet of space around the unit, so trim back any bushes and pull out any weeds. Make sure there aren’t any sticks or leaves caught in the vents. After a storm, it’s a good idea to take a quick look and clear away anything that blew over. Doing this every couple of months can keep your system running smoothly.
Opening the Unit? That’s a Job for the Pros
You might be tempted to pop open your AC unit if it’s acting up—especially if you’re handy with tools. However, what looks like a simple fix can quickly turn into a mess. Inside that metal box are electrical parts, refrigerant lines, and delicate components that don’t handle guesswork well.
Take refrigerant, for example. If your system is low on it, your AC won’t cool properly. Handling refrigerants requires special training and certification. You could damage your system if you accidentally overfill it or pick the wrong type. Electrical parts are another tricky area. Capacitors and contactors control the flow of electricity, and they can hold a charge even after the power’s off. If you touch the wrong thing, you could get shocked. Professionals have the right tools and know exactly what to look for. They check connections, test the system, and spot minor issues before they turn into big ones. Letting a trained tech handle those inside jobs keeps you safe and your system in shape.
Cleaning Coils Isn’t as Simple as It Looks
You might’ve heard that cleaning your AC coils can improve performance—and that’s true. But getting it right is more challenging than it sounds. Those coils are delicate, and bending or denting them can restrict airflow. When that happens, your system has to work harder, and your cooling suffers. Cleaning coils isn’t just about spraying them with a hose. There’s a process to it, and the wrong cleaner or too much pressure can cause damage.
Professionals know how to clean coils safely. They use special coil cleaners that break down dirt and grime without harming the metal. They also straighten any bent fins to restore airflow. If your coils are dirty, you might notice your system runs longer, and the air doesn’t feel as cold. Cleaning them can make a big difference, but it’s not something you want to risk doing wrong. Trusting a pro saves you from accidentally making things worse.
Checking for Leaks and Electrical Problems Requires Experience
If your AC starts acting strangely, like making odd noises or shutting off randomly, you might suspect a leak or an electrical issue. It’s natural to want to figure it out yourself, but these are the kinds of problems that can get dangerous. Refrigerant leaks can cause your system to freeze. Electrical issues can lead to shorts or fires.
Finding a refrigerant leak isn’t as simple as spotting a puddle. The lines are sealed, and leaks can be tiny. Pros use tools like leak detectors to pinpoint the problem. Electrical issues can be even trickier. Loose connections, worn wires or faulty parts can cause your system to stop working without warning. You might hear a buzzing sound or smell something hot. Those are signs to call for help.
When a pro checks your system, they go through everything. They tighten connections, test voltage, and ensure refrigerant levels are correct. They know what to look for and how to fix it safely.
Annual Tune-Ups
Your air conditioner works hard, especially during the hottest months. Over time, parts wear down, and dust builds up inside. You might not notice anything immediately, but minor issues can grow into big problems if not caught early. That’s why getting your system checked by a professional once a year is one of the best things you can do.
During a tune-up, a technician inspects every part of your system. They check the thermostat, tighten electrical connections, clean the coils and ensure refrigerant levels are where they should be. They also look for worn parts that could fail when you need your AC most. This kind of maintenance can extend the life of your system and keep it running efficiently. You’ll notice your house stays cooler, your energy bills remain lower and you’re less likely to need an emergency repair when temperatures spike.
Call Us Today
Swapping out your air filter often and clearing leaves, grass, or debris around your outdoor unit can help your AC run smoothly. But it’s better to leave it to a pro when it comes to deeper maintenance. You deserve peace of mind knowing your AC is in top shape without the stress of handling it all yourself. Plus, professional service will ensure your indoor air quality stays in a healthy range.
When you’re ready for professional AC maintenance that keeps your system running like new, give True Climate Heat + Air a call.
