LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- As temperatures soar into the 90s, your air conditioner is working overtime but there are some steps you can take to make sure it keeps running smoothly as the heat cranks up.
Monday was one of the hottest days of the year, and it was also the busiest day for calls for Bryant Heating and Cooling.
Service Unit Twice A Year
Keeping cool boils down to a well-maintained A-C unit. Jamason Welker with Bryant Heating and Cooling said units should be serviced twice a year: once in the fall, and once in the spring.
That can help reduce the likelihood of your AC going out when the temperature outside is in the 90s.
Change Filter Frequently
The importance of checking and changing your filter cannot be overstated.
"Make sure the filter is being checked," Welker said. "On most of those filters you want to change at least once a month."
Welker also said it's important to make sure the arrow on the replacement filter is pointed in the direction of the airflow.
Keep Outdoor Unit Clean
Outdoor units are vulnerable to the elements and should be checked periodically. Make sure your outdoor it is free from debris or anything that could impede air flow.
"When you're outside cutting grass, make sure you're not blowing clippings into the outdoor unit that can make it hard for it to breathe," Welker said.
If that happens use a water hose to spray clean it.
Call A Professional
Welker said sometimes the only thing you can do is call for help.
"Another call that we get quite often is someone will call and say 'Hey my unit is frozen,' and they'll literally see frost or ice around the indoor unit where the coil is or the outdoor unit."
Welker said frost or ice on the coils means there's a leak in your unit that will need to be serviced by a professional.
Keep Vents Clear
Finally, make sure the vents in your home can breathe by making sure they're not blocked by furniture or other objects.
"Ultimately, you're going to do it on your time or the machine's time and ultimately we want to do it on our time and not when it breaks down."
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