How to prep your AC for summer

Summer months are upon us, and suddenly, only a ceiling fan just doesn’t cut it. Whether you reside in a relatively cooler region or have the misfortune of living in a humidity-prone zone, there will be a time in one of these three months when you might feel the need to switch on your AC.

However, neglecting to prepare your air conditioner for summer after its long winter slumber can lead to potential issues. Here are five essential steps to ensure your AC is ready for the summer heat:

5 ways to prep your air conditioner

It is best to give your AC a warm-up period before you switch on your air conditioner for the long haul again. Here are five quick steps you can follow:

1. Dust the unit
2. Clean condenser coils
3. Clean or replace filters
4. Check the coolant lines
5. Test the unit

1. Dust the unit

Any appliance needs a little TLC after a long hiatus. Cleaning the unit of any dust or debris before switching it on is a good practice. Wipe the blades using a wet towel, and make sure to dust the outdoor unit as well. In case of any water inside the unit, mop it up with a clean, dry cloth before you switch the appliance on.

2. Clean condenser coils

An air conditioner’s condenser is typically located in the outdoor unit. It helps your AC expel warm air from within your house and further to the unit for it to cool down. If your condenser unit was covered during the winter season, take the cover off, dust the unit, and ensure the fan or the fins are free of any leaves, twigs or any other outdoor waste.

That said, it is not recommended to clean the coils by yourself, and you should always seek expert or technician help to dismantle the unit.

3. Clean or replace filters

If your AC has been left unattended for the winter season, chances are your filters might need a good clean, too. Having dirty or broken filters can reduce your air conditioner’s efficiency. Carefully open the front of your unit (note that some units may also require a screwdriver) and remove the filter sheets.

ALSO READ: Top reasons why your AC is making a weird noise and how to fix it

Use a soft brush or a wet cloth to wipe the filter clean of clogged dust. Doing this from time to time not only ensures clean air circulation within your room but also keeps you free of potential respiratory illnesses.

4. Check the coolant lines

Coolant lines are PVC pipes or flexible tubes that run between the AC’s indoor and outdoor units. While a lot of these are concealed depending on your interiors, you might be able to check for instances of missing or frayed insulation. In case of damage, dial in an at-home technician to get it done before you decide to switch your AC on. You could also choose from Croma’s ZipCare air conditioner maintenance plans that will guarantee timely assistance.

5. Test the unit

Once you’re done checking all of these components, plug in your AC and switch it on to give it a test run. Once on, your air conditioner might be able to cool within minutes. This practice can also get rid of any musty odour trapped within the unit. Keep your windows open for about five minutes to allow fresh air to circulate within your room again.

On following these steps, your AC unit should be as good as new and readied for the season. However, it is crucial to note that these steps are only to prep the unit; in case of any damage, it is best not to tend to the appliance on your own and seek professional help wherever needed.