How to Prep Your Air Conditioner for Fall

Summertime in Florida (and let’s face it — winter, spring and fall too) is notoriously hot. With temperatures topping nearly 100 degrees and humidity levels to match, our air conditioning systems are the true unsung heroes of our homes during the summer season and beyond. But when the harsh temperatures finally ease up a bit, it’s important that we give our HVAC systems a little love following a busy summer.

Fortunately, with a little AC know-how, you can prepare your air conditioning system to keep you cool the rest of the year. Here are six things you can do today.

1. Change the Air Filter

It’s easy to forget to change your air filter regularly, but it’s one of the simplest ways you can improve the efficiency of your AC. Changing your air filter after the summer months is especially important since the season pushes your system to the limit with high temperatures, pollen and the like. With fall in full swing, be sure to swap your air filter for a fresh one if you have yet to do so.

2. Clean the Vents

Debris (think dander, dirt, dust and the like) collects in the air vents over time, which decreases indoor air quality. After an especially warm summer season, cleaning your air vents will help reduce the amount of debris in your air vents. Not only will this improve the quality of the air indoors, but it will reduce unpleasant odors and lessen the effect of seasonal allergies on occupants in your home.

3. Check the Air Ducts

If you can see noticeable dust coming from the air vents in your home, it’s time for a professional air duct cleaning. Over time, dust collects in the air ducts and disperse throughout the rooms of your home via the air vents. While this is a normal occurrence, this dust is composed of dead skin cells, hair, and pet dander — yuck. Fall is the perfect time to ensure your air ducts are clean and ready for the cooler weather.

4. Inspect the Evaporator Drain

A clogged evaporator drain can be the start of much bigger problems if overlooked. Algae and mold can clog the evaporator drain over time which can lead to flooding in your home and costly repairs for your system. A wet/dry vacuum will unclog an evaporator drain which will prevent the buildup from affecting the performance of your HVAC system.

5. Inspect the Evaporator Coil

The evaporator coil can also collect dust over time which will affect the efficiency of your AC. There are a few different commercially available no-rinse coil cleaners if you opt to clean the coils yourself — but call a professional technician if you need help.

6. Clear Debris From the Outdoor Unit

Keeping the outdoor unit clean can also increase your air quality and get your HVAC system ready for the cooler season ahead. It is important to make sure there isn’t anything blocking the flow of air in and out of the unit. Be sure to remove any overgrown grass and other debris.

Schedule Maintenance with Energy Air

If you need HVAC help contact us today to find out more about our extensive list of residential and commercial air conditioning services we offer. And be sure to check out our quality maintenance services, which can help keep your AC is top-performing shape year round.