Air Conditioner Inspection: How To Keep Cool & Conserve Energy
Springtime in Ocean City is always exciting. It means summer is just around the corner. With temperatures rising and humidity levels starting to creep up, it’s essential to ensure your air conditioning system is in the best condition possible for the summer.
Broadley’s is a family owned and operated HVAC company, and we have been servicing the Jersey Shore since 1953. In these years, the expertise and knowledge of the HVAC industry has been passed down for generations, while we are also striving to learn about the best and newest technologies and practices.
An annual air conditioner inspection is necessary to keep your AC running efficiently throughout the summer months. This inspection includes several important procedures, such as checking the AC shutoff and thermostat, inspecting electrical components, cleaning filters and ducts, and testing the refrigerant charge. By following this thorough guide to air conditioner inspection procedures, we do our best to ensure your home remains cool and comfortable all summer long.
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What’s Included In A Comprehensive AC Inspection
Focusing on Safety Aspects
Safety should be the top priority during an AC inspection. HVAC technicians should inspect fail-safes, limit and safety controls, and wiring for any signs of damage. They should also check the foundation and shims to ensure the unit is level and secure. Additionally, surge protectors should be installed to protect against electrical surges and lightning strikes.
Enhancing Cooling Capacity
The airflow, blower motor, air filters, fins, and supply registers should be checked for proper functioning to ensure optimal cooling capacity. The blower shut off and service valves should also be inspected to ensure they are working correctly.
Examining Electrical Elements
During an inspection, the electrical components, including the contactor, capacitor, and wiring, should be checked for any signs of wear and tear or damage. Technicians should also examine the supply voltage and perform an integrity test to ensure that the electrical system is working efficiently.
In-Depth System Maintenance
The evaporator coil, condenser coil, compressor, and condenser fan blade should be thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt or debris. The suction line insulation should be checked for any signs of damage. The drain line and pan should also be checked for any mold or pest infestations.
Estimating Inspection Time
The length of an AC inspection can vary depending on the size and complexity of the system. On average, a comprehensive AC inspection can take anywhere from 1-2 hours.
Average AC Inspection Cost in Ocean City
The cost of an AC inspection can also vary based on location, but on average, the cost ranges from $100 to $300. Full-system services, such as refrigerant charge and repairs, may incur ++
additional costs. Check with your HVAC contractor to the the cost of their AC inspection. We also recommend looking into a Service Plan. At Broadley’s, it’s beneficial for your HVAC system and your wallet to sign up for a service agreement, rather than just a single service.
Eight Reasons to Schedule An AC Inspection
Eight Reasons To Schedule An AC Inspection
An AC inspection is an essential maintenance task that homeowners should consider scheduling at least once a year. Here are eight reasons why an AC inspection is beneficial:
1. Improved Air Quality
An AC inspection helps to clean or replace the air filters, which in turn improves the air quality in your home. Clean air filters help to trap airborne particles such as dust, pollen, and pet dander, improving the overall air quality, and reducing allergies.
2. Increased Efficiency
During an AC inspection, HVAC technicians check the system’s components for wear and tear, making necessary repairs and adjustments. This helps the system run efficiently, saving you money on energy bills.
3. Lower Energy Bills
An efficiently running AC system uses less energy, translating to lower energy bills for homeowners. Over time, if your system goes unchecked, it can start to run less efficiently. If you notice the AC bills are higher than previous years, this could be the reason.
4. Preventative Maintenance
Regular AC inspections allow technicians to detect and fix minor issues before they escalate into major problems, preventing costly repairs. Often times these repairs are a small part, or a simple piece that needs to be adjusted.
5. Enhanced Safety
AC inspections help to identify and correct safety hazards, such as refrigerant leaks or faulty wiring, keeping homeowners safe.
6. Seasonal Preparation
Regular AC inspections ensure that your system is ready for the cooling season, avoiding system failures during the peak season. So many times people call us when they first turn on their system, and run into a problem we would have caught with pre-season service.
7. Improved Longevity
With proper maintenance, an AC system can last for 10+ years, and regular inspections can help prolong its lifespan.
8. Peace of Mind
Knowing that your AC system has been inspected and maintained by a professional HVAC technician provides peace of mind for homeowners.
Why Service Agreements Are Valuable Investment
Service agreements are an investment in your HVAC system’s longevity and performance. These agreements offer a range of benefits, including regular maintenance, priority service, and discounts on repairs.
Read More: HVAC SEER Standards For 2023
Is A DIY HVAC Inspection An Option?
While professional inspections are recommended, DIY HVAC inspections can be an option for homeowners who want to perform regular maintenance and ensure their HVAC system runs smoothly.
A Complete Walkthrough for DIY HVAC Inspections
1. Verifying Thermostat Performance
Check if your thermostat is working correctly by adjusting the temperature and verifying if the HVAC unit turns on and off accordingly.
2. Disconnecting the Power Source
Before inspecting your HVAC unit, make sure to disconnect the power source to avoid electrical shocks.
3. Clearing External HVAC Unit Debris
Remove any debris around your HVAC unit, including leaves, sticks, and other outdoor debris that could clog the system.
4. Restoring and Cleaning the Fins
Clean the fins using a soft brush or vacuum to remove dirt, dust, and debris. If the fins are bent, straighten them carefully to restore their original shape.
5. Keeping the Surrounding Area Unobstructed
Ensure that the area surrounding your HVAC unit is unobstructed to allow proper airflow.
6. Balancing the HVAC Unit
Check the level of the HVAC unit to ensure it is balanced, using shims if necessary to prevent damage to the compressor.
7. Purifying the Evaporator Coil
Clean the evaporator coil with a mild detergent and water solution to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated.
8. Inspecting the Evaporator Drain
Inspect the evaporator drain to ensure it is not clogged with debris, which can cause water to back up and damage the HVAC system.
9. Changing the Air Filter
Replace the air filter regularly to ensure proper airflow and improve indoor air quality.
10. Concluding the Inspection Process
After completing all steps, turn on the HVAC unit and monitor its performance to ensure it is running correctly.
Air Conditioner Inspection FAQ
How do you inspect an outside AC unit?
To inspect an outside AC unit, turn off the power, clear debris from the unit, inspect the fins and coils for damage, clean the unit, and ensure proper drainage.
How do HVAC techs check for leaks?
HVAC techs use various methods to check for leaks, including visual inspection, ultraviolet dye testing, pressure testing, and electronic leak detection.
How do you inspect ductwork?
To inspect ductwork, start with a visual inspection for obvious issues, such as leaks or disconnected sections. Then, use a duct leakage tester to measure the efficiency of the system and identify any hidden leaks or other problems.
If you want to book an AC Service, give us a call at (609) 390-3907 for the best service you can find in Ocean City, NJ!
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