9 tips and tricks for maintaining your air conditioner
9 tips and tricks for maintaining your air conditioner
It's summertime, so your HVAC (air conditioning, ventilation, heating) system needs to excel. Stay cool this summer with our list of air conditioning maintenance tips and tricks.
How do you treat that old HVAC system? Checking the condition of your system is much more important than you think.
There are a number of things you can do yourself to ensure the quality of your results and the health of your family. Whether you have an HVAC system or not, the ventilation and cooling processes in your home have a direct impact on the air you breathe.
Let's take a look at some tips and tricks on air conditioning maintenance to keep you cool and healthy this summer.
Air conditioning maintenance tips
Some of these tips won't apply to everyone. Systems are different and different homes have unique cooling methods. That said, most heating and cooling systems are made up of similar parts.
We'll cover a number of the most essential aspects of home maintenance and let you know when you'll want to call in a professional.
Let's get started:
1. Air filters
What will require the most maintenance of the ventilation system will be your filter. This is also a good thing, as a filter can easily be changed or cleaned.
Unless you have a really high-end air-conditioning system, you should be able to clean or change the filter yourself. How often you change your filters depends on the style of filter your system requires and the environment you live in.
If you're not sure, an Internet search should easily clarify the type of filter required and what's needed to maintain it. At the very least, you can check your filter and clean it as best you can, or ideally replace it to improve your home's air quality.
2. Cleaning the coil
Coils will encounter and accumulate a lot of dirt over time, especially if they are outdoors. This dirt can prevent the coils from evaporating the condensation that forms on them, reducing the quality of the system's work.
You won't be as comfortable, because the temperature won't be as hot or cold as it could be, and your system may consume more energy due to dirt.
3. Evaporator gas level
Many systems have an evaporator, which is really the heart of the system's operation. Heating and cooling generally begin in the evaporator.
Some devices allow you to check the gas level in the evaporator. This level must be checked if you want your system to work properly. Normally, it should never be topped up unless there is a leak or a poor initial installation. You may be able to refill the gas yourself, but if there are no clear instructions for your system, we recommend you call in a professional.
4. Condensation drain
The condensation drain line is usually the louvered screen on your outdoor unit that children base their drawings on. If you're not familiar with this description, please consult your system manual.
Often, these louver screens become dirty and clog up the moisture. When the pipes are blocked, the system can no longer function properly, and condensation turns to moisture, which can lead to leaks.
You can clean these parts by spraying or cleaning them. Just make sure the system is free of debris!
5. Straighten your slats
The "screens" mentioned in the last section are made up of slats. It's important to keep these lines straight, as bumps and dents can lead to build-up. It's also important that the air flow allows condensation to evaporate.
You can use a "specialized laminate straightening comb" or simply use several plastic cards. Be careful, however, as these are sensitive parts of the system.
6. Cover your unit when not in use
If you're going to be away from home for an extended period, or if you won't be using your air conditioner in winter, try covering it.
It doesn't have to be too complicated. Just try putting a tarpaulin over the outdoor unit or surrounding it with pieces of plywood. The idea is to keep debris out when the system is not in use.
7. Keep your condenser in balance
Sometimes the condenser of your outdoor system is placed on the ground, which becomes subject to slight changes over time.
It's important that it's kept on a level surface in order to work properly. If the ground sinks during the change of season, the system won't work as well as it could.
You can elevate your system on any support, or consider placing it on a solid concrete base.
8. Introducing intelligent technology
Smart thermostats and similar home automation technology can be added to your system with a few upgrades. These will considerably reduce your energy consumption if programmed correctly.
What's more, you can have a greater degree of control over the heating and cooling of your home. In most cases, you can set your phone's thermostat remotely with your smartphone even when you're not at home.
9. Play it Safe
The basic maintenance listed above should be dealt with according to your level of knowledge. Simple HVAC problems do not always have to be dealt with by a certified professional.
That said, many problems require professional help. Problems with your ductwork or faulty systems are serious problems. Few things affect your health more than the quality of your air.
Respiratory illnesses are a fact of life, and you could be putting yourself at risk if you're not careful with your ductwork and air conditioning systems. If you haven't had a check-up in a while, there's no harm in having one soon.
You probably won't notice when things go wrong, either. HVAC systems are reliable, but there's no telling when there's mold or other pollutants in the air.
Need cleaning?
Regular air conditioning maintenance is a must. It's a good idea to carry out regular maintenance so you don't forget to do it, and so you don't have to worry about your air quality.
Follow us on social networks and stay tuned for more ways to maintain your home system. Visit our website for more DIY maintenance tips.
