As the summer heat rolls in, residents are relying on their air conditioners to provide a reprieve from the blistering temperatures.
Such dependence puts the need for regular air conditioning (AC) unit maintenance sharply into focus, not only because a malfunctioning unit could mean hotter homes but also higher electricity bills.
As previously reported by The Dallas Express, record demand is putting a strain on the state’s power grid, and part of the reason is the widespread use of AC units, many of which are not necessarily running as efficiently as possible.
Speaking with WFAA, Milestone’s HVAC service manager John Lyzenga gave some valuable tips on how to keep AC units running smoothly and, most importantly, coolly.
1. Don’t ignore signs of trouble.
Lyzenga pointed out several indications that a home’s AC unit is malfunctioning.
First of all, there might be a strange noise or smell — both should be investigated by a specialist, according to WFAA. A burning smell is especially a cause for concern since it might point to a fire hazard.
More subtle clues that a cooling system is not working well include poor performance, like when some rooms do not get as cool as others, and higher bills.
2. Don’t skip out on routine maintenance.
Lyzenga told WFAA that people should have their air filters cleaned or replaced every six months.
“We’d highly recommend putting the date on the filter as well, so you remember when to change your air filter,” Lyzenga added.
Dirty filters can clog and reduce the cooling system’s efficiency.
Having a properly serviced AC unit saves energy and money in the long run since it will prevent costly repairs and premature replacements.
“If you take care of your air conditioner, it’ll take care of you,” Lyzenga told WFAA.
3. Pay special attention to the evaporator and condenser coils.
The evaporator and condenser coils are commonly neglected parts of cooling systems, yet they can easily collect dirt over the course of a few months.
“If you’re facing the condenser, and looking through the coil, and can’t see through because of dirt or debris … it’s time for maintenance,” Lyzenga told WFAA.
He added that failing to do so could cause damage to the fan motor and compressor by overheating.
4. Keep the outdoor condenser unit clear of debris.
Lyzenga advised not letting leaves, grass, and weeds accumulate near a condenser unit, which can significantly degrade its performance, according to WFAA.
This can be done with a water hose, yet using low water pressure is key since power washers have been known to cause damage, Lyzenga explained.
5. Don’t shy away from professional help.
When in doubt, Lyzenga encouraged seeking help from a licensed professional.
A comprehensive AC system inspection would be the most thorough way to ensure a cooling system is in tip-top shape, as it entails cleaning and flushing the condenser coils, vacuuming the blower compartments, draining the pan and drainage system, and checking the refrigerant and mechanical parts.