Rooftop air conditioning is an efficient and safe way to install AC. Having your AC on the roof means combining your indoor and outdoor boxes into one unit, keeping your AC safe from yard debris and enjoying far less AC noise. Roof-top units are often known as RTUs for short and require a slightly different maintenance profile than traditional indoor-outdoor AC installations.
Knowing the maintenance difference can really help if you want your home’s RTU to achieve optimal efficiency and longevity.
Understanding Your Rooftop AC Unit
Rooftop AC units include coils and compressors in a single unit that connects directly to your ducts to distribute cold air throughout the house.
Common issues that you might encounter with your RTU include
- Exposure to the elements: RTUs are up on the roof, exposed to sunshine, wind, and rain. They are very durable but can age faster if not protected and maintained.
- Debris: While safe from debris on the ground, dust from the air and leaves from tree branches may still need to be cleaned out.
- Drainage: RTUs can sometimes have problems properly draining during heavy rain or snow.
- Component Failures: RTUs are often neglected due to their location, which can lead to a higher likelihood of undetected component failures.
Maintenance is essential for RTUs, which can be very efficient, but only if they are regularly cleaned and maintained like a traditional AC system.
DIY RTU Maintenance Tips
How should you maintain your RTU? There are several steps that you can take as a homeowner to ensure that your rooftop AC is working optimally or to determine when to call a professional.
First, you will need a safe route onto your roof.
Regular Inspections
Perform a regular inspection of your rooftop AC about once a season. Check for debris and obstructions and brush the fins to keep the air intakes clean. Then, inspect for signs of damage and verify that the AC unit is draining properly.
Filter Maintenance
Make sure to continually change the filters. The installation design will determine whether there is an indoor air intake inside your house to change the filter easily or if you’ll need to access the roof. Change the filter every 1-3 months to ensure optimal performance.
Outdoor Unit Care
Because a rooftop unit combines the indoor and outdoor units (compared to a traditional AC system), you’ll want to remember to give the unit on the roof outdoor care. Clear away debris and remember to protect it from harsh weather with a cover when dangerous weather is brewing.
When to Call a Professional
While you can complete a lot of your AC maintenance by climbing on the roof a few times a year, know when to call a professional to fix real problems.
Signs You Need RTU AC Repair
- Unusual noises
- Reduced cooling efficiency
- Frequent breakdowns
- Water leaks
- Electrical issues
Benefits of Professional Maintenance
You may also benefit from hiring AC professionals to maintain your rooftop AC system. Professional maintenance has several advantages.
- Rooftop Safety: If you don’t feel safe climbing on the roof multiple times a year, a professional team can do this safely.
- Expert Diagnosis and Repair: Identify and resolve problems fast, as soon as symptoms appear.
- Preventative Maintenance: Catch issues early with inspections before they become problems. Cleaning can also prevent future maintenance issues.
- Extended Equipment Life: A professionally maintained RTU will likely last longer with better performance.
Professional RTU Maintenance Services
Steamatic of Colorado Springs can help you take excellent care of your rooftop AC unit while keeping you safe from the risks of rooftop excursions. Our technicians bring years of experience and highly trained expertise to each maintenance service, ensuring your RTU is properly maintained. We proudly provide on-demand repairs and preventative maintenance plans to keep your rooftop AC in top condition every year.
Contact us today to explore rooftop AC inspections, repairs, and maintenance plans.
Image Source: PeopleImages.com – Yuri A // Shutterstock
