Summer is on Its Way: Time for Air Conditioning Repair and Installation Service

As sunny days begin to outnumber cold, gray days, it is time to think about air conditioning installations and repair. Outdoor HVAC units take a beating from winter weather and precipitation even when they are properly covered. It is a good idea to check your unit to see if it is working properly before the weather becomes hot enough to really need it. You can save a lot on air conditioner repair just by doing some simple home maintenance.

First Spring Checkup

There are many things you can do for your air conditioner first thing in the spring. Start by cleaning winter debris away from the outside unit. Check the filters and either clean or change them. Check to make sure the drains are clean. If water backs up in the unit, there is a good chance that it will freeze and obstruct operations. Alternatively, a clogged drain could mean water flowing into areas you would prefer to remain dry. Using a soft brush, gently clean the metal vanes of the air intake. Also, check the concrete slab on which it sits to make sure it is level, and inspect vents for leaks.

DIY for the Handy Householder

If your AC unit doesn’t start up in the spring, and you are comfortable using tools, there are a few additional things you can do for your AC. Before you go “under the hood” so to speak, be sure to turn off the power to the AC unit. There are some parts that store electricity, so you should still be careful to avoid electrical shock. If you are unsure whether a part is still “live” use a meter to check for electrical energy.

Buy and Install Replacement Parts

The contact relay and run capacitors are small parts that frequently fail. They are easy to get to, and well within the skill range of a truly handy DIY person. Some parts, however, should only be installed by a professional, such as the crew at Becker Enterprise Group. As a family owned and operated business, they understand the need to keep that AC unit running. They can guide you through selecting those things that you can do, and the things for which you should call a professional.

Gray Areas between DIY and Calling a Pro

One of the most common air conditioner repairs is to clean out a rodent nest and replace the chewed or damaged wires. This can get a little dicey because those wires are often part of the capacitor, a unit that looks a lot like an aerosol spray can. The capacitor stores electricity, so before you do anything with it, you need to discharge it. If you are even the least bit uncertain, this is one where you could feel perfectly justified in calling in a pro.

If in Doubt, Call Becker Enterprise Group

AC units are expensive, and you are valuable, too. Some parts really are best left to the professionals. These include the motor, the evaporator, and the condenser, which are usually in sealed areas to remind enthusiastic DIYers that some things require both skills and knowledge.

We are a full-service HVAC company located in Palmyra New Jersey covering all of your Air Conditioning Service, Repairs, and Installation in our hometown and the surrounding areas like Cherry Hill, Moorestown, Mount Laurel, Voorhees, Medford, Cinnaminson, and the nearby towns.

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