To get the longest life and performance out of your air conditioner, it needs to be inspected and maintained on a regular basis. This can save many problems from developing, keeping your house cool for many years to come. Having your air conditioner break down on one of the hottest days of the year can be dangerous for the elderly, infants, and those with health issues.
Dirty Filters Need to Go
A dirty filter can keep your air conditioning unit from performing to its peak efficiency. It needs to be replaced with one the proper size and thickness. The filter will remove dirt and airborne particles from the air with a cheap woven fiberglass one being the least efficient. A step up from that is made from a pleated fabric, which removes a lot more particles, close to 50 percent. If you have allergy problems, an expensive high efficiency filter will remove most pollutants from the air, including bacteria.
Frozen Unit
A unit that is frozen should be shut off and defrosted. This can take a full day if it is frozen solid. Trying to scrape ice off coils can damage them and cause your AC unit to start leaking its coolant. After everything is thawed out, you will need to clean up the water and dry the air conditioner out. This can be done by using a small fan. Trying to dry things with a towel could also damage the coils.
More Dirt
Dirt can build up on the cooling fins and coils. This can keep your unit from operating properly. Clean everything using water and a brush designed for this so you will not damage any parts. After being cleaned, the system will need to be dried before operating again.
The Blower
The fan could possibly be a reason for your air conditioner not operating properly. It could be locked up or even have a broken drive belt. A broken wire will also keep electrical power from going to the fan, keeping it from blowing cold air into your house. If the fan on your unit has quit or is running intermittently, this is something you will probably call a technician in to diagnose and fix the problem.
Drainage Problems
Water needs to be able to drain properly to keep the air conditioner working efficiently. If there is a drainage hose, it needs taken off and unplugged. Running water or a small diameter rod through the hose might unplug the hose. If this doesn’t work, it’s time to get a new hose.
Thermostat Control
This is another thing that needs to be checked by a professional. It could have a bad wire or an electrical issue than can be checked using the proper tools. If a replacement part is necessary, a good technician should be able to replace it in a few minutes. Unless you are properly qualified, never try working on electrical parts yourself.
Proper maintenance is the key to keep your air conditioner running properly. The filter should be checked at least once a month and replaced if necessary. If you have pets, the filter will collect more hair and particles and should be changed more often. Stay cool and keep your AC running properly.
AC Masters of Mesa, AZ was founded on the principle of providing Phoenix area residents and businesses the highest level of service at affordable rates.
