Keeping an air conditioning system in working order is necessary, especially during the summer. Although you may need AC repair service from the pros for more complex issues, homeowners can rely on several do-it-yourself techniques to fix common problems and possibly bypass expensive repairs.
Air filters that are clogged or dirty can reduce your AC system's efficiency and provide poor performance. The contaminants stick to the filters, and over months or years of use build-up so thick it restricts airflow can develop - which reduces cooling efficiency.
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Air filters should be checked by homeowners regularly and replaced when they look dirty or clogged. In general, air filters should be replaced every 1-3 months; however, this can differ based on how much the filter is used and by other excessive use from environmental circumstances.
The condenser unit is the component of an air conditioner that sits outside and helps dissipate heat from the refrigerant. The condenser coils can get dirty or clogged over time with things like leaves, grass clippings, and dirt. Homeowners should be able to do this by turning the unit off and gently spraying it down with a garden hose until all dirt has been picked up. Before you clean the unit turn off the power and do not use too much water pressure since that might damage some of its fragile components.
The AC system removes humidity from the air, which is then drained through a condensate drain line. Algae, mold, and debris can collect in the drain line over time due to condensation leading into it this creates clogs within the drain and will eventually start causing water damage. Pouring a mix of bleach and water down the drain can help homeowners check for clogs in this line. Clogs can be vacuumed away with a wet/dry vac. This will prevent water damage and allow for proper drainage from the AC system.
Having your thermostat improperly configured can cause poor cooling and other issues. Homeowners can ensure the thermostat is set to their desired temperature and in good working order. Make sure the thermostat is programmed for your schedule and preferences. The above, and if possible upgrade to a smart thermostat that lets you track your improvement in real-time with features like remote temperature control.
Cracks in ductwork can waste energy and reduce cooling capacity. Homeowners can perform a visual inspection to check for leaks in their ductwork by looking at any exposed and accessible ducts for tears or disconnects. If these lines are ducts, seal any leaks or gaps with either metal tape or duct sealant. For example, good ductwork that is sealed allows the cool conditioned air to reach its target destination without escaping and therefore can improve the overall efficiency of a system.
Blocked or dirty vents and registers will limit airflow and thus reduce cooling effectiveness. Homeowners must clean vents and registers regularly to avoid dust and dirt behind the filter. Also, make sure that furniture, drapery, or other obstructions do not hinder the blast of air from vents for temperature distribution and ultimately save your air conditioner from tearing up.
When a vehicle's refrigerant level is low, the A/C unit won't be able to cool your car as cold as it should, and that can result in more energy to produce less cooling. A homeowner can track the refrigerant levels by observing pressure gauges on the AC unit. Low pressure levels could be a telling sign that you have to fix the leak immediately. DO NOT overcharge the refrigerant by adding it yourself; this is not a DIY job (unless you have an EPA certificate to handle AC), but rather seek help.
Unsafe electrical connections result in system faults and present a safety threat. Homeowners can also manually examine electrical connections looking for any indication of wires being loose, damaged, or corroded. If there are any particular concerns, switch off the power to the AC unit before seeking a solution. If there are any loose connections, tighten them and replace parts that show wear to maintain a safe system operating condition.
Overgrown vegetation around the outdoor condenser block can impede airflow and make your system less efficient at cooling. Homeowners should consistently prune shrubs, bushes, and grass around the outside condenser unit to maintain good airflow. Keep two feet of clearance around the unit to allow proper ventilation and airflow.
Preventative maintenance will keep your AC system running smoothly and prevent those expensive repairs! Although a few maintenance duties, such as filter and general cleaning can be done by yourself. You should also agenda professional preservation at least once per year. With a full inspection, tune-up, and cleaning of your system by our trained technician you can rest assured that when the temperature rises outside so will the cool dry air inside.
If homeowners routinely change their air filters, clean condenser units, examine and clear drain lines as well and check thermostat settings for the proper temperature - not too high or low - seal up ductwork properly to avoid leaks in crawl spaces and attics that can push cool AC out of homes; keep vents/registers unobstructed; refrigerant levels monitored by a professional if necessary (there should be professionals called HVAC technicians who have been certified specifically with certifications showing they know how these things work); electrical connections locked down so no shocks occur thanks causing damage through wiring shorts between themselves which could burn out your entire house during winter months then you want them gone while trimming surrounding vegetation instead taking off time now before more serious problems arise concerning landscaping.
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