Most Demanding AC Repair Services Caused by Summer Heat
It’s days like this that enhance the appreciation for air conditioning at work, in the car, and certainly at home! For some folks, air conditioners are very complex and should only be handled by trained professionals. For some with a do-it-yourself bent and a little information, maintaining the heating and air conditioning system is more of a partnership between yourself and your AC contractor. Here are several DIY tasks that homeowners can complete to help keep the system running efficiently.
Changing Air Filters. The simple task of changing an air filter regularly is key to maintaining your HVAC system. The air filter removes airborne particles from the indoor air. These particles threaten health and coat every surface—what a mess! Particles are apt to cling to the moist evaporator coil and coat the heating element of an electric heater. They will coat the ductwork and electrical controls in the system. For the health and safety of occupants and the safe and efficient use of an HVAC, the air filter needs to be changed at least every three months.
Find the air filter for your system at the point return where air enters the interior cabinet. Make certain of the proper size and find a local source for replacement filters. Your home may need a filter change more frequently than every three months—you will be in a position to know. Schedule perpetual calendar prompts to remind you to change filters regularly.
Clean the Condenser Unit. The outdoor portion of your air conditioner is called the condenser. The cabinet is composed of a network of tubes with very thin fins and has the task of cooling the refrigerant gas. A large, central fan draws air between the coils for the task, but dirt, pollen, and grass clippings coat the network and prevent adequate airflow. This layer of debris can be easily washed away with a garden hose, but only a garden hose. Using a power washer can damage the fins and restrict air movement.
Thermostat Care. A thermostat is the sensor/switch combination located about eye level on an interior wall. When the sensor registers a temperature outside of the selected setting, it calls for air—either hot or cold air. The control settings are powered by AA or AAA batteries and need to be changed annually. When you change the batteries in your smoke detectors also change the battery(s) in your thermostat. Turn the thermostat to the OFF position, gently remove it from its wall mount, and replace the batteries. After reattaching the thermostat, return the setting to ON.
Drain Line Care. The air conditioner removes as much as 2 gallons of water per day from the indoor air in a home. The moisture collects in an evaporator drain pan and flows through a drainpipe outdoors or to the home’s wastewater system. This works flawlessly until it doesn’t. A common problem happens when algae grow on the drain pan or inside the drain line. The resulting clog sends water into the surrounding floor and can cause significant damage. Use a wet vac to remove the water and suction the clog from the pipe. Add a mixture of water and vinegar, 50/50 mix, to the drain pan. The vinegar will inhibit the growth of algae.
Vent Care. Over a period of years, dust can collect inside the ductwork of a home. Accessing the ducts requires specialized equipment and training, so schedule a cleaning every three to five years. Do a frequent inspection of the supply vents and air returns around the house to ensure nothing is covering the opening, restricting airflow.
Schedule Annual Maintenance. These are tasks any homeowner can choose to complete, but there are further tasks that require equipment and training. To keep your system functioning in peak condition call your partner, your friendly HVAC professional, to complete an annual checkup inspection and thorough cleaning of your system. This minimizes repairs and maximizes the useful years of your air conditioning system.
For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our AC repair services, schedule an appointment, or visit our HVAC Maintenance Plan information page.