REGULAR MAINTENANCE OF YOUR AIR CONDITIONER

Regular maintenance for your air conditioning unit will help the unit to function effectively and efficiently throughout its years of service.

CLEANING FILTERS

The most important maintenance task that will ensure the efficiency of your air conditioner is to routinely replace or clean its filters. Clogged, dirty filters block normal airflow and reduce a system's efficiency significantly. When normal airflow is obstructed, air that bypasses the filter can carry dirt directly into the evaporator coil and impair the coil's heat-absorbing capacity. By replacing a dirty, clogged filter with a clean one, you can lower your air conditioner's energy consumption by 5% to 15%.

Clean or replace your air conditioning system's filter or filters every month or two during the cooling season. Filters may need more frequent attention if the air conditioner is in constant use, is subjected to dusty conditions, or you have pets in the house. Some filters are reusable; others must be replaced. They are available in a variety of types and efficiencies

CLEANING COILS

An air conditioner's evaporator (indoor) coil and condenser coil will collect dirt. This dirt reduces airflow and insulates the coil, reducing its ability to absorb heat. To avoid this problem, check your evaporator coil every year and clean it as necessary. Having a clean filter will help prevent the evaporator coil from soiling quickly.

Outdoor condenser coils can become very dirty if the outdoor environment is dusty or if there is foliage nearby. You should minimize dirt and debris near the condenser unit. Your dryer vents, falling leaves, and lawn mowers are all potential sources of dirt and debris. Cleaning the area around the coil, removing any debris, and trimming foliage back at least 2 feet (0.6 meters) allow for adequate airflow around the condenser. You can easily see the condenser coil and whether or not dirt is collecting on its fins and inside, also clogging the fins.

CLEANING COIL FINS

The aluminum fins on the evaporators and condenser coils are easily bent and can block airflow through the coil. You can purchase a "fin comb “at any air conditioning wholesaler, that will comb these fins back into nearly original condition.

CONDENSATE DRAINS

Clogged drain channels can prevent a unit from reducing humidity, and the resulting excess moisture that may discolor walls or carpets. Drains are also susceptible to algae and bacteria when left unchecked. It is a good idea to occasionally pass a stiff wire through the unit's drain channels to be sure they are clear.

WINDOW SEALS FOR ROOM AIR CONDITIONERS

Check the seal between the air conditioner and the window frame to ensure it makes contact with the unit's metal case. Moisture can damage this seal, allowing cool air to escape from your house.

HIRING A PROFESSIONAL

When your air conditioner needs more than regular maintenance, hire a professional service technician. A well-trained technician will find and fix problems in your air conditioning system.

If you have any questions, or need our assistance with your air conditioning unit, please call our toll-free hotline at 1-800-929-8339.