Protect Your Outdoor AC This Summer | Tips for AL Homeowners

When the summer heat hits its peak, your air conditioner becomes your best defense against the heat and humidity that overwhelms Alabama homes. Although outdoor AC units are built to endure various weather conditions, the intense heat and buildup of debris during the summer months can take a toll on their performance. 

Without proper care, these factors can lead to reduced efficiency, higher energy bills and even unit malfunctions. To keep your unit running smoothly and your home cool all season long, it’s important to take some protective measures when it comes to maintaining your outdoor AC system. We’ve outlined a couple of ways homeowners can keep their outdoor AC unit in peak condition during summer: 

Utilize Shade

To help your outdoor air conditioning unit run more efficiently during the summer, it's a smart idea to utilize shade as a form of protection. Positioning the unit on the shadier side of your home can reduce the strain caused by direct sunlight, helping it stay cooler. 

While some homeowners may consider installing a shade cover or umbrella, they may actually do more harm than good. Outdoor units require proper airflow to function properly. Umbrellas and shade covers may inhibit airflow, making your AC work harder than it needs to. 

In Alabama’s climate, planting canopy trees nearby can provide natural shade and lower the surrounding temperature. However, it's crucial to ensure that any vegetation is placed at a safe distance so it doesn't obstruct airflow or limit access for maintenance. By combining smart placement with strategic landscaping, you can improve your AC's performance and potentially lower energy costs.

Remove Debris

Keeping your outdoor AC unit free of debris is essential for maintaining its efficiency, especially during the summer months. Dirt, leaves and grass clippings can build up around your unit. This accumulation can block airflow, forcing it to work harder and use more energy to cool your home.

Homeowners should also keep an eye out for overgrown vines, trees and shrubs that experience rapid growth during summer. If left unmaintained, they can further restrict airflow and place additional pressure on your unit. 

Plus, leaves and forms of debris can lead to moisture buildup, which can cause rust, corrosion and mold growth to occur. Rust and corrosion can cause your AC unit to malfunction, leading to costly repairs and in severe cases, replacement.

If mold grows in your AC unit, it can spread throughout your home, potentially triggering respiratory issues and allergy attacks. Clearing debris not only improves your unit’s performance but also helps prevent mold growth and reduces the risk of costly repairs down the line.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

Scheduling regular maintenance for your outdoor AC unit is key to ensuring its long-term performance and efficiency. Over time, components can wear down, refrigerant levels may drop and dirt can accumulate inside the system. All of these factors can reduce your unit’s efficiency, potentially increasing energy bills. 

During routine maintenance, an HVAC technician will check several components of your AC unit to ensure they are working correctly and don’t need replacement. These include:

• Electrical connections – Electrical components and wiring are susceptible to corrosion and damage
• Refrigerant levels – Refrigerant levels may become low, leading to issues with cooling
• Airflow – Airflow may be restricted, leading to reduced efficiency
• Condenser coils – Condenser coils may be clogged or damaged
• Condensate drain – These drains can become blocked, leading to water backup
• Fan motor and blower – Fans may not function properly and the blower may have signs of wear and tear

Before summer comes into full swing, you should have a professional HVAC technician inspect and service your unit. With the right tools and expertise, a trained technician can catch small issues before they turn into costly repairs. Regular maintenance not only improves airflow and system efficiency but also helps extend the lifespan of your unit, keeping your home cool and comfortable all summer long.

Need Preventative Maintenance? C&G Is Ready To Help!

If your AC unit needs preventative maintenance, our team of expert technicians are ready to help! Located in Smiths Station, C & G Heating & Air Conditioning serves several communities along the Alabama-Georgia border including Phenix City, Auburn, Opelika and Columbus.

Our licensed technicians are here to address any questions you have about your unit while providing top-quality maintenance service. For more information about our HVAC services, give us a call at 334-489-3329. To learn more about other services, including ductwork cleanings and maintenance, visit our website by clicking the link here.