Massachusetts Winter Weather Advisory
February 18, 2021
Electrical Problems
March 5, 2021
Are you thinking about warmer temps right now? Even though we are technically still in winter for a couple of more weeks, it’s not too soon to be thinking about your air conditioner. Warm weather will be here before we know it but since it has been cold for several months, it’s been awhile since you’ve fired up that air unit. However, it’s best not to wait until the hot summer months to make sure your air is working well. Following is a list of what you can do now to make sure your air conditioner doesn’t quit on you when you need it most.
1.) Check your filter. A dirty filter can inhibit your air conditioner’s performance and efficiency. One of the cheapest and easiest things to do to make sure your air unit performs optimally is to make sure you have a clean filter in it. Your filter should be changed every 30-60 days if you have pets and live in an urban area. Less if you have not pets and the air quality outside is good. Your best bet is to check your filter every 30 days and see if it needs to be swapped out for a new one.
2.) Clear the area around the condenser unit. The condenser unit is the big square unit outside your house that creates the cold air to cool your home. If there are plants or other things around the unit it could obstruct the air flow and lessen the efficiency of your air conditioning. Additionally, you should clean the screens on the outside of the unit to ensure maximum air flow. You can do this with your hose. Next tighten any loose bolts on the condenser then remove the cage and clean the fan blades.
3.) Check your thermostat. Is your thermostat old? If it is, it could be interfering with the proper operation of your air conditioner. Why not just go ahead and replace it before summer? There are many inexpensive options when it comes to thermostats and there are also smart thermostat options such as the NEST learning thermostat. Peter Needham is a certified NEST installer.
These are 3 simple things you can do to make sure your air conditioner is ready for summer. Don’t forget to fire it up as well to make sure it is running properly and that cold air is indeed coming out of the registers. If you discover that there is a problem and you’re not sure what to do, as always, you can call Peter Needham Electrical and HVAC for an inspection and/or repairs.
