Sunshine, sun, summer, -air conditioning. They all go hand in hand. While we start skimming the swimwear section and daydream of beaches, one thing we should also be thinking about is our air conditioner’s maintenance. Do you remember the last time either your or someone else checked your unit and did it’s required maintenance? By neglecting these duties, not only does the performance decrease, your energy consumption and lifespan does as well. Here are a couple of items to check to make sure your unit is ready for the heat.
Filters
The is one of the simplest, yet most important task is to routinely replace or clean your filter. Clogged filters block air flow and reduce the system’s efficiency significantly. By replacing a dirty filter you can lower your energy consumption by 5-15%.
Air conditioner coils
The unit’s evaporator coil and condenser coil collect dirt over time. This dirt reduces airflow and insulates the coil, hindering it’s ability to absorb heat. To avoid this issue, simply check your coils a couple of times a year and clean as necessary.
Outdoor condenser coils can get dirty quickly, especially if there is foliage nearby. Do your best to minimize the debris near the unit. Cleaning around the coil, removing debris and trimming foliage back at least 2 feet allows for adequate airflow around the condenser.
Hiring a professional
If you’re unsure of how to perform maintenance duties, need guidance, or simply feel it’d be best to leave it to the professionals, look on page 70 of this month’s issue for a list of great local heating and air companies.
Just for fun
Check out energy.gov’s also infographic on home cooling for more ways to help improve your comfort and the efficiency of your air conditioner.