A properly maintained A/C unit delivers cool air to every corner of your house, so you can cruise through the summer in comfort and style. But a poorly maintained A/C can leave you feeling uncomfortable and congested, and your wallet feeling empty. At Orange County Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning, we want you to get the absolute most out of your air conditioner, which is why we prepared the following guide to help you extend the life of your A/C.
The Problem
A/C units are a big investment. Not only can they be expensive to install, they also impact the lives of everyone in your family — and not just because they help keep you cool. Your A/C also affects the air you breath and the size of your energy bill.
DIY Solutions
You and your family can enjoy healthier air and a better quality of life through proper air conditioner maintenance. Here are 5 ways you can improve the efficiency of your A/C!
Clean the Coils
Cleaning your unit’s coils can improve efficiency and cooling capacity.nnFirst turn off the power to your AC unit. Then use a garden hose to gently spray the outdoor condenser coils. For stubborn dirt, use a coil cleaner.
Check and Clean the Evaporator Coil
This is usually located inside the air handler unit. You can clean it using a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment. A clean evaporator coil ensures efficient heat exchange.
Clear the Area Around the Outdoor Unit
Good airflow around the unit improves efficiency and prevents overheating. Ensure there is at least 2 feet of clearance around your outdoor unit. Remove any debris, leaves, or plants that could obstruct airflow.
Inspect and Clean the Condensate Drain
A clogged drain can cause water damage and reduce indoor humidity control. Locate the drain line, usually a PVC pipe near the indoor unit. Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove any blockages, or pour a mixture of bleach and water down the drain to clear algae buildup.
Inspect Insulation
Good insulation helps maintain cool indoor temperatures, reducing the load on your AC. Check your home’s insulation, particularly around ductwork and in the attic.
Professional Services
Not all A/C maintenance service needs can be done easily on your own. There are times you may need to call in a pro. Here are two professional services that will increase the efficiency and extend the lifespan of your A/C.
Filters
Fact: Over 20 million people in the US are allergic to dust. And 1 in 5 people who experience allergies suffer from allergic reactions to mold. Both are a nuisance for Southern California’s over 23 million residents. You probably have an idea of how dusty SoCal’s can get, but you probably didn’t know that mold is also a problem for people living in deserts and semi-arid climates. Ironically, desert homes are actually more susceptible to mold because of lack of rain. Since there isn’t much rainfall, Norwalk homeowners are less likely to notice cracks in their roofs or faulty weather stripping. This makes it easier for moisture to accumulate in hard to reach places. nnIf you don’t regularly switch out your filters, dust and mold can accumulate in your A/C filter, impacting your air quality. Have a pro change or clean your air A/C’s filters every 1-2 months. Dust and sand can accumulate quickly, reducing airflow and efficiency. Dirty filters force your AC to work harder, increasing energy consumption and wear and tear on the system.
Inspections
Schedule professional inspections at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall. A professional HVAC technician will check refrigerant levels, inspect and clean coils, check electrical connections, and ensure all components are working properly. Regular inspections can catch minor issues before they turn into costly repairs.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can ensure your air conditioning system runs smoothly, even in an extreme desert climate. Regular care not only extends the life of your A/C unit, it can also improve air quality, and keep your energy bills in check. For professional A/C maintenance services, call (714) 400-2913! Your family will thank you for it.