When it comes to maintaining your air conditioner, you can never be too careful. If you live in Southern California, the cold winds of Santa Ana whip up and down our coastline, so make sure to check the outdoor condenser and clean it out regularly. In addition, keep an eye on the wiring and check the condenser unit. You may notice that there are critters lurking in the area, so clean it up regularly to prevent them from destroying your air conditioner.
Cleaning the evaporator coil door
Keeping your air conditioning system in good shape requires regular maintenance, including cleaning the evaporator coil door. A blocked drain tube will result in blocked evaporator coils, causing them to function less efficiently. Contact a professional HVAC contractor for repairs or maintenance. If you have trouble cleaning the evaporator coil door, follow these steps:
Before attempting to clean the evaporator coil door, turn off the AC and switch to manual mode. The evaporator coil door is located on the outside cabinet. If you’re a mechanically inclined person, you can follow the directions below to clean the coils. The evaporator coil should be checked at least monthly, and annual maintenance may be necessary. However, if you don’t know what you’re doing, contact a qualified HVAC technician for the proper cleaning.
Checking the wiring
Performing routine electrical wiring checks is an essential part of routine maintenance of your HVAC system. Not only can it help prevent accidents, but it is also a preventative measure. Seattle homeowners routinely perform these checks and find small signs of potential problems. These inspections should be done once a month for older homes, or three to six months for newer homes. If you are not sure how to do this, you should call a professional.
When performing HVAC maintenance, make sure to check all wires for looseness or damage. Loose wires can interrupt power flow and cause the unit not to function properly. Similarly, if a wire is bare, it can be dangerous and even spark a fire. The same rule applies to bare wires: if they are touching the equipment, they could cause an electric shock or even burn the person who touches them. Alternatively, they could damage nearby wiring, which could also be dangerous.
Changing the air filter
If you want to replace the air filter in your home’s HVAC system, you need to make sure you use the correct one. Look for any cracks or tears. Also, make sure it is not damaged when you take it out of its package. Follow the installation instructions carefully. Most filters have different colors for upstream and downstream flow. If the filter is not the right size, make sure to replace the gaskets around the frame.
Regularly changing the air filter is essential for your HVAC system’s efficiency. A dirty filter doesn’t work as efficiently and lets harmful particles circulate throughout your home. A clean filter will also make the system use less energy. According to the Department of Energy, a simple filter change can save your home as much as five to fifteen percent on energy costs every year. By replacing the air filter, you will improve your system’s efficiency and prolong its life.
Checking the condenser unit
When it comes to HVAC maintenance, checking the condenser unit is an important step to take to keep your system working efficiently. This unit contains outside components and should be checked periodically for any obstructions that may reduce energy efficiency and cause costly repairs. Dirt and debris may also accumulate around the exterior condensing coil, which can be cleaned to increase airflow. If you are unsure how to check the condensing coil, contact a service technician for assistance.
To oil the condenser fan motor, turn off the power and remove the top panel. The motor is located on the side, and oil ports can be difficult to find. The shaft should also be lubricated. Use Liquid Bearings 100% Synthetic Oil, which comes with an applicator tube tip. Once the fan is lubricated, reinstall the top panel.
Checking the ductwork
You may be tempted to do this yourself, but it will only lead to more damage. A visual inspection of the ductwork can reveal any leaks or damage that could be costly. For example, if you find duct tape, the leak is likely caused by the ducts being faulty. That type of tape should not be used as a sealant for leaks, and you should contact a professional HVAC technician.
Another reason to get your ductwork checked as part of HVAC maintenance is if you’re planning to convert an attic or basement into living space. If so, you’ll want to make sure you’re using the correct insulation for both the supply and return ducts. Also, be sure to install a CO detector so you’ll be notified of potential problems with carbon monoxide or mold. If you’re looking for an HVAC contractor in Connecticut, contact Hartman Brothers Heating & Air.
