I've actually had to run my central air conditioner this past week. But then again, this is South Texas. Northern climes aren't necessarily in that situation. But that does present a good opportunity for the old spring tune up.
DIY VS Calling an A/C Service Technician
There are a number of air conditioning repairs and preventive maintenance chores that the average Joe or Joan can tackle. Cleaning the outdoor condenser coils comes to mind. Proper air flow means enhanced performance.
Cleaning and straightening the cooling fins also fall in this category. How many times were they bumped by the lawn mower last year?
For adding or recovering refrigerant, you're going to need certification and a set of gauges. That's more than likely something you'll need to call a pro for.
Another thing to check, often overlooked, is leveling the condenser. Check it in all directions and shim it as needed.
Tune Up your Thermostat
Programmable thermostat? Digital thermostat? Turn of the century model? It doesn't matter - they can all benefit from a thermostat tune up. Here's a short list of what you can do:
- If its got batteries, go ahead and replace them.
- Make sure it's level.
- Clean out any dust.
- Adjust the anticipator.
If you take care of these spring cleaning chores now, you won't have to rush to do them on that really hot day when the service guy can only book you during his overtime hours.
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