Your air conditioning system is one of the most valuable—and heavily used—appliances in your home, especially during hot summer months. Protecting it isn’t just about comfort; it’s also about preserving your investment and avoiding costly repairs. Fortunately, there are several practical steps homeowners can take to safeguard their AC equipment and keep it running smoothly.
Let’s look at five key protection strategies: wet switches, surge protectors, filter changes, drain treatment, and managing hard starting. Protect your equipment with AC maintenance in Alison Park by scheduling an appointment today!
1. Wet Switches: Detect Leaks Before They Become Problems
One of the most common causes of damage to air conditioning systems—and homes—is water leakage from a clogged or overflowing condensate drain pan. That’s where wet switches come in. A wet switch is a safety device designed to detect the presence of water where it shouldn’t be. When it senses moisture in the drain pan or surrounding area, it shuts down the system to prevent water damage. This small device can prevent major headaches by alerting you to drainage issues before they cause mold growth, ceiling stains, or structural damage.
2. Surge Protectors: Shield Against Electrical Spikes
Power surges—whether caused by lightning, power outages, or grid fluctuations—can wreak havoc on your HVAC system’s sensitive electronics. A surge protector installed on your air conditioning unit can help absorb or deflect these electrical spikes, preventing them from damaging expensive components like the compressor or control board. This is a relatively low-cost upgrade that adds a critical layer of protection to your system.
3. Filter Changes: The First Line of Defense
A dirty or clogged air filter forces your AC system to work harder, reducing efficiency and increasing wear and tear. Regular filter changes—typically every 1 to 3 months depending on usage and filter type—help maintain airflow, improve indoor air quality, and protect internal components from dust and debris. Staying on top of filter maintenance is one of the easiest and most effective ways to extend your system’s lifespan.
4. Drain Treatment: Prevent Algae and Clogs
Your air conditioner removes moisture from the air as part of the cooling process, and that water needs to drain away properly. Over time, algae, mold, and other organic buildup can clog the condensate drain line. This can lead to water backups, system shutdowns, and even water damage. A routine drain treatment helps keep the drain line clear and functioning properly, an inexpensive step that can prevent major service calls.
5. Hard Starting: Support Aging Compressors
If your AC unit struggles to start or makes a loud noise during startup, it may be experiencing what’s known as hard starting. This condition places extra strain on your compressor, which is one of the most expensive components in your system. Installing a hard start kit can help by giving the compressor a boost during startup, reducing wear, and extending its life. It’s especially useful for older units or those exposed to high demand.
Protecting your air conditioning system doesn’t have to be complicated. Small investments in maintenance and protection today can lead to big savings. and a lot more comfort down the road.
Contact Kennihan Plumbing & Heating, Inc. today to schedule an appointment with our professionals. We treat your home like it’s our grandma’s home.