To achieve maximum efficiency and performance, it is mandatory for you to conduct regular maintenance on your Air Conditioner.
As a result, you will also enjoy cool air and pay standard energy bills.
We asked Karl Davis of AirconSpares to give us his top tips on maintaining your air conditioner.
Article Chapters
Start with the Filters
The role of AC filters is to filter dirt and dust from getting into your system.
Over time, these filters can get clogged, and this is why they should be cleaned or replaced regularly.
Clogged filters block airflow, and this impacts your AC’s efficiency to a greater extent.
Failure to do so, you can accrue an increase of up to 15% in energy bills.
Different types of AC’s have their filters situated in varying areas.
The standard AC’s have their filters on the ceilings, walls and furnaces.
Central air conditioners have their filters near the return duct’s length.
Note that there are different types of filters.
Some can be cleaned, whereas others have to be replaced.
You need to confirm which filter you are using to avoid any inconveniences.
AC Coils
One primary role of a filter is to prevent dirt from reaching the coils.
But even if you do replace your filter frequently, dust will still accumulate on the evaporator coil.
This is why you should clean it once in a year.
Because the dirt can prevent the coil from absorbing heat.
If you have an outdoor condenser coil, it might be more prone to collecting dirt, and you should check on it often.
It is recommended that you ensure there is no dirt or debris near your condenser unit.
Don’t also forget to trim the foliage back at least 2 feet back.
Window Seals
For those using room air conditioners, you should always inspect the window seals.
At times, if the unit frame isn’t in contact with the unit’s metal case.
Moisture can build up and damage the seal leading to cool air escaping from your house.
Coil Fins
Coil fins bend easily with time, and if this is the case, it can block airflow.
You can, however, purchase a fin comb that gets the fin back to their original conditions.
Condensation Drains
If you notice moisture build-up on walls or carpet, then this can be caused by blocked condensation drains.
Making your unit unable to reduce humidity.
You can counter this problem before it even happens by frequently running a wire through the unit’s drains.
This will remove any clogging.
Preparing for Winter
During winter, you definitely won’t be using your AC unit.
Therefore, you need to remove and store it somewhere safe.
And by safe we aren’t only implying about security; it should be stored in an area free from dust and debris.
Should I Hire a Professional for A/C Maintenance?
There are some of the above things that you can do by yourself.
However, for a more thorough check-up, you should hire a professional HVAC technician.
They will look for any problems with your unit and offer solutions.
Here are some of the things that a professional HVAC technician should check.
They should start by checking the amount of refrigerant.
Look for leaks and seal duct leakages.
Measure airflow and inspect all electric terminals.
They should not leave without checking the status of the thermostat and if the oil motors are working optimally.
Basically, a skilled HVAC technician will know what to do when they are inspecting an air conditioner.
Maintaining your AC unit is essential.
No matter how busy you are, it would be best if you always made time for analysing and doing any necessary changes to ensure it is working as it should be.
Also, you need to be on the lookout for any weird noises coming from your unit.