What’s Cooler Than Cool When it Starts to Get Hot?

Every week, the detail-oriented folks at Green Scene Home Inspections will give CandysDirt.com readers an education in inspection. Want to see what they see? Tune in for “Upon Closer Inspection.”

As summer weather approaches, North Texans will be relying on their air conditioning more and more, and now is the perfect time to make sure it’s in good shape.

Routine Service

We recommend having your AC serviced at least once a year to make sure you have plenty of coolant, the mechanisms are clean and working properly, and the vents and ductwork are set up correctly. It’s better to pay to maintain your AC equipment than to pay to repair or replace it.

Change Filters Regularly

One of the easiest and best ways you can maintain your HVAC system is to change your filters regularly. Clean filters really make a difference in the efficiency of the system and the quality of the air.

Don’t Delay Maintenance

If you live in Texas you’ve probably seen this before. It’s 100 degrees outside and you’re staring at ice on your AC wondering how in the world that happens.There are a few causes of this, but what it comes down to is improper maintenance: not enough coolant, fans aren’t working properly, clogged filter, leaks. All of these can cause an overworked system to literally freeze.

Catch The Outside

One of the main components of the HVAC system that homeowners often forget about is the outside unit.

On this one, you’re looking at some pretty extensive damage, probably caused by hail. If you look closely at the outdoor unit above, you’ll see lots of tiny fins. When these fins are damaged, the airflow is restricted and the system can’t run properly.

There is actually a “comb” that can be used to straighten damaged fins, but we’d recommend having a professional do this for you.

What The Duct?

Another main component of your HVAC system is the ductwork. Did you know that checking your ductwork is usually NOT part of a standard AC service? You can do a visual inspection of your ductwork to see that it’s connected everywhere, and not twisted or blocked. It does you no good to have a great AC if the cold air can’t move through your house.

Last, remember to call the experts when it comes to AC repair. “See, honey, if I lay a brick on it, it stops banging!” #DIYFail