Proper Air Conditioner Maintenance

The outside unit, known as the condenser, typically contains a compressor, cooling fins and tubes and a fan. The fan sucks air through the fins, cooling a special coolant which the compressor then pumps into the home or office to the evaporator through a copper tube.  Coolant chills the fins and tubes of the evaporator. Warmer air drawn from the building by the blower passes through the evaporator and is cooled before being blown through ducts to the rooms. The evaporator dehumidifies the air as it cools it, and the resulting condensation typically drains off to a floor drain through a tube. That’s the process in a nutshell.  As you can see, the outside unit plays a critical role, and is left largely unprotected in the elements outdoors.  Here are some easy steps you can take to improve the longevity and efficiency of your outside AC unit and your HVAC system as a whole through proper air conditioner maintenance.

  1. Clear debris from the top of your outside unit, like leaves, pollen buildup, sticks, bugs, etc.
  2. Turn off the power and clean the condenser.
  3. Cover your outside AC unit with plywood for the winter – if you wrap it with plastic, it’ll rust.
  4. Replace indoor filters at least quarterly to maintain efficiency and prevent buildup.
  5. Contact an HVAC professional every 2-3 years to check electrical parts and the coolant level.

Tips to Save Money & Electricity

When the cold winter air gives way to the climbing temperatures of spring and summer, you’ll want to be able to stay cool without having to empty your wallet for energy bills.  This article has compiled a list of six key steps you can take to save money on your utility bill without sacrificing comfort.

1. Replace old air conditioning units with newer, efficient models.

If you have an older unit that has not been properly maintained, invest in a new model. The replacement costs may seem daunting, but in the long run, they are well worth it. Manufacturers such as Trane, Rheem and others are labeled with Energy Star ratings. Energy star HVAC products use up to 50 percent less energy than other manufacturers.

2. Invest in a programmable thermostat.

Programmable thermostats allow you to control your HVAC units even when you’re not there. Match your thermostat to your schedule, use a timer for when you leave for work and when you come home, set it for particular rooms, and even set specific temperatures.

3. Don’t forget about your air filters.

Air filters should be replaced monthly to promote a more efficient system performance. Clogged or dirty air filters can cause a disrupt in the airflow and even lead to health concerns.

4. Protect your HVAC unit from sun and debris.

An awning or tree can provide shade to your unit and cut energy consumption while helping your unit operate more smoothly. However, note that shrubbery or branches that can get into the system and can hinder the system’s performance and may lead to permanent damage.

5. Make sure that your vents are clean and open.

It may be obvious but it is truly remarkable what you may not notice about your own home. Vents can be accidentally shut for cleaning purposes and never reopened. If you notice an unusually warm room or area in your home, don’t forget to check the vent.

A clean vent also keeps debris from flowing through your home. Dirt and dust can easily collect and can be overlooked; be sure to focus on the inside of your home as well as the outside and ensure your vent and air filters are in good condition.

6. Think gravity.

Heat rises. During those hot summer months, the heat in your home will rise to the ceiling or the second floor of your home. To help that hot air on its way out of your home, fans can be a great tool.

Either ceiling fans or standing fans help move the air around the room, creating a cooler environment for your family. Good air circulation helps your home maintain an even temperature, giving your HVAC a chance to work less.

Article Courtesy of Angie’s List contributor, Louis Bruno of Bruno Total Home in Naples, FL