Struggling with your air conditioner? Learn the easy methods to maintain a cool home while reducing energy expenses, as outlined by an expert.
In the midst of the current heatwave sweeping across the country, many people are relying on their air conditioners to stay cool. However, neglecting the maintenance of these units can lead to performance problems and costly repairs.
Richie Drew, Vice President at One Hour Air Heating and Air Conditioning, shares a tip on how to make AC units run smoothly and efficiently during heatwaves. "When the heat is on, the hotter it gets outside, the harder an AC has to work to maintain the set temperature," Drew explains.
To keep an AC working efficiently during a heatwave, it's important to keep the unit clean. Here's how:
- Clean or replace the air filter regularly: For window or portable units, remove the filter, vacuum off dust and hair, wash with warm soapy water, let it dry completely before reinstalling, and replace every 6 weeks to 6 months depending on usage and conditions.
- Clean the outdoor unit’s condenser coils and fins: Ensure at least 2 feet of clearance around it, gently hose off dirt, leaves, and debris, and use a soft brush if needed to clean the fins without bending them. Remove any obstructions around fan blades.
- Wipe down the grill and exterior surfaces: Clean the front grill and exterior with mild detergent or a damp cloth to improve airflow and prevent dust buildup. For vents, use a soft brush, vacuum, or cotton swabs to remove dust and debris.
- Drain and disinfect portable AC drain system: Empty any standing water from the drain outlet, flush with a vinegar and warm water solution, rinse, and let dry fully to prevent mold and bacterial growth that reduce efficiency and cause odors.
- Inspect and maintain ductwork (if applicable): Seal any leaks in ducts with mastic or metal tape and insulate them properly to prevent cool air loss and improve overall system efficiency.
- General tips: Always unplug the unit before cleaning to ensure safety. Cleaning should be done regularly during heavy use periods (e.g., monthly or quarterly) to maintain steady airflow and cooling capability, which is critical during extreme heat.
A clogged filter full of dust, pet hair, and other debris limits airflow, forcing the AC to work harder. This can lead to an increased risk of the unit not working as efficiently. To avoid this issue, it's important to drain the pan under the condenser and clear the lines so water can properly flow out.
Keeping on top of AC unit maintenance and arranging an annual service is recommended. Spraying off dirt, dust, and cobwebs from the outside of the AC unit can improve airflow and efficiency.
It's also worth noting that a damp home can cause spoiled dry goods, mildew on walls or ceiling, or spreading around the house. Humidity can cause mold and mildew to build up on the evaporator coil, which can lead to a drop in performance. When humidity rises, an AC unit has to work more since one of its key jobs is to remove excess moisture from the air.
If unsure how to do this, it's a good idea to call an HVAC technician for help. Following Tom's Guide on Google News can provide up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews in your feeds. Most air filters should be changed monthly, though some can last up to three months. Debris, shrubs, sticks, or lawn furniture should be cleared away from the outdoor AC unit to ensure proper airflow.
Stay cool and comfortable during the heatwave by maintaining your AC unit for optimal efficiency.
[1] One Hour Air Heating & Air Conditioning. (2021). Air Conditioning Maintenance Checklist. https://www.onehourair.com/blog/air-conditioning-maintenance-checklist/ [2] Energy Star. (2021). Air Conditioner Maintenance. https://www.energystar.gov/products/air_conditioners/ac_maintenance [3] Tom's Guide. (2021). How to Clean a Portable Air Conditioner. https://www.tomsguide.com/us/how-to-clean-a-portable-air-conditioner,review-3779.html [4] Angie's List. (2021). How to Maintain Your Air Conditioner. https://www.angieslist.com/articles/how-maintain-your-air-conditioner.htm
Incorporating science and health-and-wellness, it's essential to keep your home cool during the heatwave by maintaining the efficiency of your air conditioner. This could involve lifestyle changes such as frequent cleaning of air filters, outdoor unit condenser coils, and the unit's grill and exterior surfaces to improve airflow. Additionally, one might consider fitness-and-exercise related practices like arranging annual services or calling an HVAC technician to ensure proper unit performance. To create a comfortable and healthy living environment, home-and-garden maintenance tasks like clearing debris from around the outdoor AC unit also play a crucial role when managing humidity levels inside your home.
Adhering to these practices helps minimize the risk of performance problems, costly repairs, and potential health issues that may arise from a neglected AC unit during a heatwave, ultimately enhancing your overall lifestyle.
