How to Maintain Your AC Unit During Florida’s Hottest Month

Palatka, FL, has a warm climate year-round, even in the winter when mid-day temperatures settle at a comfortable 70 degrees. Unfortunately, the summers aren’t as mild, with May to September highs from the high 80s to the low 90s. But with July and August contributing to the latter part of that spectrum, they’re the hottest months, and knowing how to maintain your AC unit during this time is crucial. 

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. That’s why Southern Air Heating & Cooling views AC unit maintenance as a vital precaution that reduces unit repairs and replacements. Below, we’ll relay some of those air conditioner maintenance tips. 

Clean Your Air Filters Seasonally

Without air filters, dust, dander, hair, and pollen enter your unit as air handlers suck in your indoor air for cooling. The debris settles on internal components, causing them to slow or stop. Furthermore, the system blows out this settled debris, rereleasing it into your breathing air, which causes respiratory attacks, so you need filters allergens can latch onto. 

But after some time, an impenetrable wall of dust overtakes the filters, restricting airflow, warming your home, and causing your unit to long cycle. Moreover, the debris detaches and re-enters your atmosphere, so clean your filters regularly with a soft-bristled brush and mild dishwashing detergent. You can purchase a new set every three to four months. 

Clear Debris Away from the Outdoor Condenser Compartment

Just as clean filters are necessary in your indoor evaporator compartment, ensure nothing is causing blockages in your outdoor condenser unit. Your AC unit care guide explains this form of air conditioning upkeep, which includes clearing at least two feet around the system. 

For instance, trim trees or bushes growing near your unit so twigs and leaves don’t enter the compartment. Similarly, remove any fallen leaves, branches, and other debris lodged in the system, causing the unit to overwork and overheat. 

Check Your Thermostat for Accurate Temperature Readings

If you’re wondering how to maintain your AC unit, cleaning isn’t all that should be on your HVAC maintenance checklist. First, check that your thermostat is set to cool and your desired temperature to avoid improper cooling and long or short cycling. If it is but your malfunctioning thermostat won’t power on or is constantly glitching and altering your settings, try changing the dead or dying batteries. 

If it’s a wiring problem that needs a technician’s touch, call for professional cooling system maintenance to remedy the concern. 

When You Need Cooling Power, Choose the Best of the South!

Scheduling semi-annual professional maintenance in the spring and fall is #1 on our list of HVAC service tips. Our specialists, with over 1,000 five-star reviews, have state-of-the-art tools and equipment to dismantle your unit and clean parts you cannot get to. We also check refrigerant levels, tighten loose parts, and make minor repairs, keeping your unit in top condition.

So, to schedule a service or learn how to maintain your AC unit, call Southern Air Heating & Cooling at (386) 222-1342 for 24/7 assistance today!