Get the A/C system ready for a Louisiana summer

The heat and the humidity of a South Louisiana summer is no joke.
The Better Business Bureau of South Central Louisiana says that air conditioning contractors are always very busy during the extreme temperatures of summer and winter.
There are several steps homeowners can do to maintain air conditioners, and scheduling a routine check-up with an HVAC professionals is one of them!
Here is a 10 Ten Step Maintenance plan from the Better Business Bureau of South Central Louisiana:
1. Get the right equipment installed correctly. Replacing old equipment is a great way to save energy costs and money. To reach its full potential, a system must be the right size for your home and be properly installed. Improper installation or sizing can significantly reduce your system’s efficiency.
2. Check thermostat settings. Want the best of both worlds? Why not try installing a modern smart thermostat. Installing a smart thermostat is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to save energy costs while homeowners are away, but keep them comfortable when at home. It will automatically adjust the home’s temperature depending on the set schedule. Homeowners also have the convenience of operating it right from their smartphone.
3. Change filters regularly. Inspect the air filter monthly and replace as necessary. If it looks dirty after a month, change it. A clean filter improves air quality and efficiency.
4. Check the area surrounding your outdoor unit. Remove leaves and debris from around the system, trim back any nearby bushes and clean out leaves or dirt from the top of the AC unit to improve air flow.
5. Seal ducts properly. Unsealed ducts routed through unconditioned spaces like attics and crawl spaces allow heated and cooled air to escape. These leaks ultimately reduce your systems efficiency.
6. Listen for unusual noises. Unusual noises are often a sign that there are potential problems. Sounds like duct popping can be an indicator of airflow restrictions and high pitch squealing or screeching noises can indicate failing motor bearings. It is rare that these strange noises will just go away.
7. Check for standing water and condensation. Standing water near the indoor unit or excessive condensation build up on the duct could indicate a clogged condensate drain or worse it could be from ice buildup due to an airflow issue or refrigerant leak. Catching it early can prevent damage to other components.
8. Check high and low voltage wiring to outdoor units. It is common to find areas where a mouse or chipmunk have chewed the electrical wires controlling the outdoor unit.
9. Keep vents and registers clear. Airflow problems can reduce the system’s efficiency. Keep registers and vents clear of furniture and other items that may restrict airflow.