Regular A/C maintenance is vital for an efficient and long-lasting system, so it’s not something to leave entirely up to your HVAC technician. Between professional maintenance calls, there are a few jobs you can take care of yourself.
Change your filters — Dirty air filters impede airflow through your air conditioning system, reducing its efficiency by up to 15 percent and placing potentially damaging strain on your components. Every month, remove your filter and hold it up to a light. If you can’t see light through the filter, put in a clean one.
Clean the coils — Dirt on your indoor evaporator coil insulates the coil, preventing it from cooling and removing humidity efficiently. A dusty evaporator coil can be cleaned with a stiff brush. For a moderately dirty coil, foaming cleaning agents are available. A coil with heavy buildup or signs of mold should be professionally cleaned to prevent damage.
A dirty outdoor condenser coil also impairs airflow. As part of routine A/C maintenance, use a brush to remove dirt, leaves, grass clippings, and other debris whenever it builds up. Next, remove the top of the unit, taking care not to damage the fan assembly. Use a moderate-pressure stream of water from a garden hose to rinse the coils from the inside out.
Straighten the coil fins — The aluminum fins on your condenser are easily bent or crushed if hit by hail, lawn equipment or other hard objects. Damaged fins restrict airflow, impairing your system’s operation. To straighten them, use a “fin comb” available from air conditioning or home improvement supply stores.
Clear the condensate drain — The drain pan and drain under your evaporator coil is prone to algae growth. To prevent algae blockage, pour 1/2 cup white vinegar into the drain every two to three months. Twice a year, use a wet-dry vacuum to suck debris out of the condensation line on the outside of your home.
For guidance on good A/C maintenance or for a professional A/C inspection, contact us at Bradbury Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning, serving Conroe, Magnolia, Montgomery, Pinehurst, Shenandoah, Spring, Tomball, and the surrounding area.
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