Air conditioning is widely considered one of the most important amenities for comfort and health. Maybe that’s why more than 90% of American homes have an installed air conditioning or a heat pump system. With these incredible machines comes some responsibility. Find out more about some expert maintenance tips that will keep your AC running safely and smoothly.
Important AC Components
Air conditioners may look simple enough as indoor box units, split-mounted wall units, or central air systems, but these cooling devices rely on a complex network of wires and components. Air conditioning filters, coils, fans, and refrigerant lines all require regular inspection and cleaning to operate efficiently, effectively, and safely.
Dirty air conditioning isn’t healthy for the people and pets in your home because it reduces indoor air quality and can cause respiratory issues. Additionally, an unclean system can pose fire or electrical risks. Dirty units circulate air filled with dust, mold, and bacteria. For some, this can trigger asthma and allergies. The unit itself can cause hazardous overheating or water damage.
The Filters
Start by cleaning or replacing the filters. Clogged filters also send dirt to gather on the evaporator coils. Follow the manufacturer’s or your HVAC contractor’s guidance for cleaning and/or replacing your HVAC filters. It’s generally recommended that you change your filters at least once every 90 days. However, if you have pets in your home or someone in your house smokes, it’s wise to change them every 30 days.
The Evaporator Coils
Evaporator coils are responsible for absorbing heat and moisture from the air in your home. This not only leads to lower temperatures, but also makes your home less humid. Over time, these coils can become coated in dirt and dust, leaving them unable to perform at their best. They can also freeze, which renders them useless. During a routine maintenance visit, a technician will carefully clean these coils to ensure that they’re ready to keep your system running right.
The Fans
Depending on the type of AC that you use in your home, you may be able to see large fan blades in the top of the outdoor unit. Indoor ACs, like ductless mini-splits, use smaller fans to push air into the space. Over time, these blades can suffer damage, reducing the performance of your system. Carefully inspecting these fan blades for damage is an important part of protecting your AC and your comfort.
A Professional Hire
If you can’t keep up with your AC’s regular maintenance, you put the system at risk for failure or even fire. A licensed HVAC technician can give you peace of mind by inspecting your system and fixing any issues before the season begins. If you live in Baton Rouge, LA or a surrounding area and need AC installation services, make your first call to HVAC Essentials.