Spring season is the time of year for rejuvenation and new beginnings, but it’s also time for spring-cleaning checklists and allergies. Set aside a little time this spring for these do-it-yourself (DIY) air conditioner maintenance tips, and schedule a service call with your HVAC pro. You’ll boost home comfort, knock out allergens and reduce energy bills through the cooling months in south Texas.
Airflow
Air Conditioners need free airflow through the entire forced-air system to maintain maximum efficiency. Use these DIY care tips to assist airflow, and your HVAC pro takes care of the rest.
- DIY: Clean or change the air filter. Make sure supply outlets and return grilles are unobstructed by furniture and debris. Remove vegetation near the outside cabinet that may obstruct airflow.
- Pro: Your HVAC pro will inspect the ductwork for leaks and damage, and the supply outlets for equal air pressure. The technician should also check for proper airflow across the evaporator coil, and then clean or replace the filter.
Refrigerant charge
Only a specialist certified with the EPA can measure and charge refrigerant.
- DIY: Use a garden hose to wash off debris from the outdoor condenser coil to promote proper heat transfer from refrigerants. Â Make sure the unit is turned off before you rinse it down.
- Pro: The evaporator, condenser and refrigerant lines are inspected for leaks. Refrigerant charge is measured and adjusted if needed. The evaporator and condenser coils are deep-cleaned.
Electrical components
Faulty electrical components can cause the evaporator coil to ice up, which brings cooling to a stop and can damage the compressor.
- DIY: Your HVAC pro checks all electrical components, but, as an energy-wise homeowner, consider installing a programmable thermostat for carefree comfort and energy savings.
- Pro: Electrical contacts are checked for function and signs of wear. Thermostat functionality and electronic sequences are checked.
Drainage
Proper drainage is important to prevent water damage inside your home.
- DIY: While drainage issues are handled by your HVAC pro, you should periodically check for standing water in the drain pan, and, if detected, schedule a service call.
- Pro: Tasks your technician will perform include cleaning/checking the drainage line for wear; cleaning the drain pan; chemically treating the drainage system to hinder algae growth, and ensuring the proper slope for the drainage line.
In south Texas, to schedule heat pump maintenance, contact CCAC, Inc.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Corpus Christi, Texas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about A/C maintenance and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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