The most important maintenance task that will ensure the efficiency of your air conditioning unit is to routinely replace or clean its filters. Clogged, dirty filters block normal airflow and reduce a system’s efficiency significantly. With normal airflow obstructed, air that bypasses the filter may carry dirt directly into the evaporator coil and impair the coil’s heat-absorbing capacity. Replacing a dirty, clogged filter with a clean one can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%.

Some types of filters are reusable; others must be replaced. They are available in a variety of types and efficiencies. Clean or replace your air conditioning system’s filter or filters every month or two during the cooling season. Filters may need more frequent attention if the air conditioner is in constant use, is subjected to dusty conditions, or you have fur-bearing pets in the house

The air conditioning unit evaporator coil and condenser coil collect dirt over their months and years of service. A clean filter prevents the evaporator coil from soiling quickly. In time, however, the evaporator coil will still collect dirt. This dirt reduces airflow and insulates the coil, reducing its ability to absorb heat. To avoid this problem, have your evaporator coil every year and cleaned by a professional technician.

Outdoor condenser coils can also become very dirty if the outdoor environment is dusty or if there is foliage nearby. You should minimize dirt and debris near the condenser unit. Your dryer vents, falling leaves, and lawn mower are all potential sources of dirt and debris. Cleaning the area around the coil, removing any debris, and trimming foliage back at least 2 feet allow for adequate airflow around the condenser.

The aluminum fins on evaporator and condenser coils are easily bent and can block airflow through the coil. Have your HVAC technician check these.

When your air conditioning unit needs maintenance, hiring a professional service technician is the smart move. A well-trained technician will find and fix problems in your air conditioning system.

The technician should:

• Check for correct amount of refrigerant
• Test for refrigerant leaks using a leak detector
• Capture any refrigerant that must be evacuated from the system, instead of illegally releasing it to the atmosphere
• Check for and seal duct leakage in central systems
• Measure airflow through the evaporator coil
• Verify the correct electric control sequence and make sure that the heating system and cooling system cannot operate simultaneously
• Inspect electric terminals, clean and tighten connections, and apply a non-conductive coating if necessary
• Oil motors and check belts for tightness and wear.
• Check the accuracy of the thermostat.

We at Action Heating and Air Conditioning have been in business since 1997. Our well-trained technicians can locate your HVAC system problems and repair them as well has offer an affordable maintenance plan to help save your money on costly repairs. Please visit our website at www.callaction.net to meet our team and learn more about the services we offer and discounts available.