Summer is here once again, which means it’s time to put that air conditioner (AC) back in action. It’s often easy to forget, but without consistent checkups, air conditioner performance will steadily decline while energy use progressively increases.
An air conditioner’s coils and filters require regular maintenance for the entire unit to function effectively and efficiently throughout its years of home service.
When you keep your air conditioner healthy and maintained, you’ll not only save money on energy, but you’ll you also expand its lifespan. This means you won’t have to spend money on a new, costly model.
This is the best time of year to pay your AC the care and attention it needs: just as summer begins and it’s still cool enough to function without it.
Always work with an HVAC contracting company that you can trust and rely on, and one that offers a 24-hour repair service and competitive prices — stop by Evamcanada.com — a trusted HVAC contractor with over 25 years of experience.
They’ll let you know all of the ins-and-outs of how to keep your AC going strong throughout the summer months, and will have the tools to keep you comfortable without breaking the bank.
Before you schedule a maintenance visit from your HVAC contractor, here are a couple of tips that can help improve your well-being and the performance of your air conditioner.
Clean the Coils
There are two types of coils in AC units: the evaporator coil and the condenser coil. The main job of an evaporator coil, found inside of the home, is to remove heat from indoor air so the blower fan can return cool air into the home.
The condenser coil, found outside of the home, helps the transfer of heating energy into and out of the home.
Both coils collect dirt and dust over their months or years of service, and it’s important to clean them each year. The collected dirt reduces airflow and insulates the coils, limiting the ability to absorb heat.
Once your AC unit is turned off and you have opened the unit so that you can see the access panel, clean the coils using compressed air, a brush, commercial cleaning solutions, or mild detergents and water.
Change or Clean Air Filters
When air filters are regularly changed or cleaned, your AC’s efficiency will improve. Replace one-inch pleated filters once a month. If you’re unsure of the type of filter to use, consult your local trusted HVAC contractor.
It’s important to remember that filters will require more attention if your unit is in constant use, if it’s subject to dusty conditions, or if there are pets in the house.
If you’re cleaning a filter, first check to see if it can be cleaned and reused, rather than disposed of and replaced. To clean, turn off your unit and remove the filter. Then, using a vacuum fitted extension stick, suck any dirt or grit from the filter.
When these two maintenance tasks are performed on a regular basis, your air conditioner will run efficiently and effectively for a long time to come. Of course, it’s always best to consult a professional if you have concerns or questions about your cooling system.
It’s going to be a hot one this summer, so don’t waste any more time before it’s too late!
