Your cooling unit is one of your home’s most significant appliances. It’s essential for keeping your home comfortable and safe during the summer months. Your air conditioner can also regulate your home’s temperature and ensure healthy indoor air quality.
Like other crucial home investments, your air conditioner’s components also need regular maintenance to uphold its best performance. Neglecting this essential step will lead to expensive repairs and affect its efficiency, which can increase your energy bills.
If you want to maximize your cooling unit this summer, this article will guide you to maintain its crucial components. We’ll also discuss how to prepare your air conditioner for the off-season and when to seek professional help.
1. Air Conditioner Filters
You can usually find these filters in walls, ceilings, or the air conditioner. Many room air conditioners have a filter in the grill that faces the room. Some filters are reusable, while others need replacements.
You can ensure your air conditioner’s efficiency by regularly cleaning or replacing the filters every one to two months. This maintenance step can reduce energy consumption by 5-15%. You must also give your cooling unit extra attention if it runs for extended periods, it’s in a dusty environment, or if you have fur-bearing pets.
2. Window Seals
Begin the cooling season by inspecting the air conditioner’s seal between the unit and window frame to ensure it’s with the metal case. Replace the seal if needed to prevent the cool air from escaping your house.
3. Condensate Drains
You should occasionally run a stiff wire through the unit’s drain channels to prevent clogs that prevent humidity reduction, which could cause discoloration on your walls and carpets.
4. Coil Fins
The aluminum fins on the evaporator and condenser coils can easily bend and block airflow, reducing your cooling unit’s efficiency.
Fortunately, a “fin comb” combs the bent aluminum fins on the evaporator and condenser coils back to their original condition to allow proper airflow.
5. Air Conditioner Coils
You can maintain your air conditioner’s efficiency and avoid expensive repairs by checking the evaporator coil and cleaning it yearly. We also recommend keeping the area surrounding the outdoor condenser coil free from debris. Moreover, trim the foliage back to at least two feet to enable adequate airflow.
Storing Your Air Conditioner for the Winter
Responsible homeowners must protect their cooling units from cold weather and floating debris during winter. You can do this by covering the room air conditioner with a waterproof cover or unplugging it and storing it safely. However, if you have a central air conditioner, cover the outdoor unit to protect it from the winter elements.
When to Seek Professional Help
When your air conditioner isn’t functioning correctly or cooling your home to a comfortable temperature, it’s time to call a professional to repair your cooling unit.
A reputable technician will have the proper knowledge and experience to accurately diagnose the issue and get your air conditioner back in working order.
What Should Your Technician Do?
Your technician must test for leaks, measure airflow, check for correct refrigerant levels, and capture any evacuated refrigerant. They must also review and seal the broken ducts, verify electric controls, and inspect electrical terminals. Moreover, any reputable technician should always pay attention to the oil motors, check belts, and the thermostat accuracy.
Keeping a Cool and Comfortable Home
Every significant investment, such as your air conditioner, needs regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency. Contacting a reputable technician for your cooling unit’s repairs and routine upkeep can spare you from expensive mistakes.
AutumnAir offers professional air conditioner repair in Birmingham, AL, to help our residential and commercial clients have a more enjoyable summer. Contact us now, and let’s help you keep a more comfortable home!