With spring now upon us, it won’t be long before we’ll need to shut the windows and turn on the air conditioner to get some indoor comfort. That’s why now is the ideal time to ensure that your air conditioner is all set to go for the hot weather to come. If you’re wondering what to do or where to begin, we’ve provided a few tips below to help you out.
And what if you bought an air conditioner from your builder and it has yet to be installed or is defective? Read on to find out what coverage you have under your new home warranty.
Clean the outdoor condenser unit
Your air conditioner’s condensing unit is typically located outside your home. This is the part of the air conditioning system that is responsible for transferring indoor warm air outdoors to allow for the inside of your home to be cooled. If the condenser unit is not functioning properly, the system will not be able to effectively cool your home.
One of the best ways to keep your condensing unit in good working order is by ensuring that it’s clean, both inside and out. Regular maintenance includes cleaning the condenser coils and fan blades, and removing any leaves or other debris trapped inside the unit. Check out one of the many videos available online that explain how to do this safely and effectively. It’s also a good idea to remove any branches, weeds, or other items surrounding the unit that can block airflow and ultimately affect performance.
Change the air filter
When was the last time you changed your filter? If you can’t remember, then doing so at the beginning of the cooling season might be a good idea. Changing the air filter regularly not only improves the air quality inside your home but also ensures your air conditioning system operates effectively. A clean filter puts less strain on your unit, potentially leading to lower electricity bills and a longer lifespan.
A good rule of thumb is to replace the air filter every three months, or 90 days. If you have pets or allergies, you may want to consider changing the filter more frequently.
Book a tune up
It goes without saying that one of the best ways to keep your air conditioner in good working order is by having it inspected regularly by a professional. A qualified HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technician will be able to perform all of the maintenance tasks required to keep your air conditioner running smoothly. Additionally, they will be able to detect and address any issues before they become bigger and more costly problems.
Experts recommend scheduling a service appointment annually, ideally before you turn on your air conditioner for the first time.
Warranty coverage for air conditioners
If you purchased your air conditioner from your builder, your new home warranty covers certain defects in work or materials related to it for up to one year from your date of possession (Note: this coverage is separate from any manufacturer’s warranty).
Most importantly, the warranty includes an accelerated claims process between May 15 and September 15 if you encounter one of the following situations:
- Your builder-supplied air conditioner has not been installed; or
- You experience a complete loss of cooling in your builder-supplied air conditioner.
For more information, check out our blog article, visit our website, or contact us.