Should I Do Anything Special Before I Turn off the AC Until Next Summer?

With the temperatures slowly starting to cool off in Lorton, Virginia, it’s time for homeowners to prepare for the upcoming winter. But before you turn your air conditioner off for the very last time this year, it’s best to give it a little TLC before it hibernates until next summer. Here are three things to check off the list.

Change AC Filter

Air filters work to keep pollutants out of your HVAC system, ensuring that it operates properly and efficiently. If you haven’t changed your air filter throughout the summer, you air conditioner has worked much harder than it had to to cool your home. Fortunately, you’re lucky it didn’t break down and result in a serious repair. What’s more, a clean filter will help you save money when the electric bill arrives. Change your AC filter today, continuing to do it every one to three months.

Clear Condensate Line

Most condensate lines run out of your home and look like a PVC pipe. You can find them near your air conditioning unit close to your home’s foundation. If your condensate line is clogged, it could lead to leaks into your home where the AC is located. To unclog it and eliminate the risk of costly repairs down the road, simply attach the end of a Shop-Vac to the pipe, wrap your hand around the connection to improve suction and run the vacuum for a few minutes. If the problem persists, contact an HVAC contractor before doing anything else and causing more damage.

Schedule Heater Check-up

Another reason to contact an HVAC professional is to schedule a heater check-up before the cold weather arrives. It’s better to do this early, since many folks wait until the last minute. In Virginia, your heater is just as important as your air conditioner. Make sure yours is in tip-top shape so you’re not left shaking and shivering the winter away.

For more information about turning off your air conditioner for the summer, or if you’re hoping to buy a new furnace for the winter ahead, contact us at (703) 436-8028. We’re happy to assist with all your HVAC needs. Additionally, it’s important that you

Finally, it’s important that you don’t fall victim to summer’s most common air conditioning repair – capacitor breakdown.