If you reside in in Arizona, you’re very familiar with monsoon season. Most people assume it doesn’t rain in the desert, but we are here to tell you that when it rains, IT POURS.
Now, of course it doesn’t rain every day but when the storms come you need to make sure you are prepared! These storms can be intense, and with the force of the driving rain on the desert dust, dust storms are bound to happen. With the blazing heat that also occurs this time of year, the absolute last thing you want to deal with is your A/C not working properly. So we, put together a list of 7 A/C tips you should consider to ensure you’re A/C unit runs efficiently throughout monsoon season!
Change your filters
One of the most effective ways to prepare your air conditioning system for monsoon season is by having clean filters. During monsoon season, high amounts of dust and other contaminants are blown around due to high winds and can be sucked into your home through your filter. A dirty filter will cause your A/C system to overwork, compensating for not being able to get clean air through the trapped dirt particles, which will eventually exhaust the system. This will raise your energy bill while causing internal damage through the ducts by continuously circulating dirty air. If your filters are disposable, you should be replacing your filters every month or as indicated by a Larson technician.
Examine your doors and windows
It’s important that the air circulating through your vents is as clean as possible to keep your A/C system and ducts in tiptop shape. If there are gaps in your window frames or above or below your doors, this leaves room for the dusty, dirty air to enter your home. This air will in turn get sucked through the vents and recirculated, all the while clogging up your filters and potentially damaging the system. Before a storm, seal up any openings that shouldn’t be present to best prevent this.
Clear the area around your AC unit
Monsoon weather often brings high winds that range from 30 to 40 mph. These strong winds can break off tree branches and other landscaping debris that could fly into your AC unit causing costly damage. Depending on where exactly your unit is located, we recommend that you clean out the surrounding area to prevent any loose debris from the storm falling onto it or damaging the unit. Make it a point to pick up anything that could potentially be hazardous when the wind picks up and make sure your unit is properly secured. If you have access, make sure the ductwork is also tightly sealed to best protect your vents from taking on any dirt or damage.
Clean your coil
Severe storms, like a monsoon can leave your A/C unit covered and dust and dirt causing inefficiencies. When dirty, your unit will run hotter, and your energy bills will increase due to the excess amounts of electricity being used. To save time and money in the future, it is best to consistently clean the coil by spraying the outside of your unit before and after any severe storms. A clean coil will keep your system running smoothly and efficiently rain or shine.
Invest in a surge protector
Lightning strikes are a common occurrence during these types of storms. If lightning strikes, it could potentially put your home out of power and if the power goes out, you can forget about air conditioning! Investing in a surge protector will stop your AC unit from turning off in the case of a power outage. The protector is placed at the unit to protect it from disconnecting electricity. Having your own surge protector will protect your unit and save you from expensive repairs.
Regular A/C Maintenance
We can’t stress enough the importance of getting routine AC maintenance. Checking in on your system periodically will keep your system running efficiently no matter the weather. We recommend scheduling a maintenance check in the spring months before temperatures start to rise and before monsoon season arrives.
Remember that your A/C is working 24/7 to keep the temperatures of your home as comfortable as possible. Without proper care, you might be in for a long hot summer if your A/C decides to quit! Stay cool for the summer and schedule a consultation with a Larson technician by calling 480-428-0600 or book online.