Before you know it, spring will be here, and temperatures will begin rising. American Comfort Experts wants to prepare you for using your air conditioning systems by knowing the best ways to keep up with your a/c maintenance. Keeping your system up and running smoothly requires proper attention to its maintenance and service needs. Let’s take a look at what you can do for your air conditioner maintenance; and when you need to call in the HVAC experts.
Why do you need to perform regular A/C maintenance?
Let’s discuss why your system even needs routine maintenance. Regularly taking care of your air conditioner extends the life of your unit; routine a/c maintenance can also save you a large amount of money on repair and replacement costs. Something as simple as changing the air filter in your unit can prolong its efficiency and improve the overall air quality throughout your home.
How to Clean Your Outdoor A/C Condenser Unit
Cleaning your condenser unit outside on a yearly basis will increase the efficiency of your air conditioner and protect your investment. You can even add this to your list of spring-cleaning projects you may have coming up! However, you can also hire a professional to clean your unit for you if you don’t have time. Cleaning the unit is especially important if there is a substantial amount of weeds growing around your unit or large amount of leaves or grass clippings stuck in the unit.
How to Clean Your Evaporator Coil
Your indoor air unit should have an access panel that can be removed to expose the evaporator coil. If necessary, check your A/C owner’s manual to locate the access panel and evaporator coil.
- Turn the air conditioner off at the thermostat.
- Remove the screws or other fasteners to loosen the access panel.
- Place the panel and screws aside where they won’t get lost or separated.
Small accumulations of dirt and other materials can often be removed using compressed air to blow them loose from the evaporator coil.
- Direct compressed air across the coil in the opposite direction of normal airflow, from the cleaner to the dirtier side.
- For more stubborn pieces, place the air nozzle close to the bottom side of the debris.
- If using high pressure air, direct it either at a 90-degree angle or directly through the fins.
- Maintain consistent airflow across the coil. This will dislodge buildup without forcing it further into the fins and making it more difficult to remove.
- Avoid blowing dust, dirt, and debris into the ductwork system or into your home’s living spaces. Wear eye protection to keep the material out of your eyes.
We know this can sound confusing and like a lot of work, which is why our experts at ACE are always available to give you a hand with your A/C units!
Changing Your A/C Filter
This is one of the easier tasks that can usually always be done at home without expert help. Dirt and debris in your filter can block air flow, increasing the workload of your cooling system. By replacing the filter regularly, you can decrease wear and tear on your air conditioner while allowing the movement of air for improved and healthier indoor comfort. FYI, even most apartment complexes have filters on hand for you to change out your filters!
