Air Conditioner Repair & Maintenance

Air Conditioner repair & maintenance

Your AC system works hard throughout the cooling season, and over time dust, debris, and other items collect inside your indoor unit (evaporator) and outdoor unit (compressor/condenser). These items reduce air flow and can make it harder for your air conditioner to cool your home. Luckily, there are some easy DIY maintenance tasks that you can do to prevent minor problems and extend your AC system’s lifespan.

Air Filters

Regularly clean or replace your air filters every 1-2 months. Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing your AC to work harder and reducing efficiency. You should also gently clean the outdoor condenser coils once a year to remove dirt and debris. Clogged coils inhibit heat exchange, requiring your air conditioner to use more energy and leading to higher cooling costs.

Often, the drain line, which carries condensation from your AC unit to the outside, becomes clogged with algae and slime. This problem can be easily solved by locating the drip pan on your system and opening the PVC drain cap on the exit point of the drainage line. Then, simply flush the line with warm water and soap.

The aluminum fins on the compressor and condenser can become bent, causing obstructions in your airflow. A fin comb, which is available at most home improvement stores, can be used to straighten these bent or crushed fins by applying gentle pressure. Alternatively, you can try using a dinner knife that is no more than half an inch in length to twist the fins back into place.

Leaky Ducts

One of the biggest causes of HVAC-related energy waste is leaking ducts. You can check if your ducts are leaking by opening vent covers and peeking into the ductwork with a flashlight. If you find that the ductwork is leaking, seal it with duct tape or mastic sealant.

Sinking Unit

The concrete pads under your home air conditioner can sink over time. This isn’t a big deal if the pads don’t place too much strain on the copper coolant tubes and electrical lines, but it becomes a problem when the sinking causes leaks or creates water puddles around the unit.

If you notice a musty or smoky smell coming from your vents, it’s time to call an HVAC technician. These are typically signs of a mold issue and may indicate that the evaporator coils have been contaminated by bacteria. In addition, strange noises and other abnormalities are also a good reason to call an AC professional right away. These issues can be dangerous to your health and can lead to more serious, expensive problems.

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