If you have an air conditioner at home or at your place of work here are 4 things that you should know:
AC dirty filters can be catastrophic
Air filters prevent pathogens and dust particles from getting into your house. With time, plenty of pathogens and dust particles accumulate in the air filters thus reducing the unit’s effectiveness. In addition to the air conditioner working excessively, dust and pathogens by pass the dirty air filter and collect over the evaporator coils. Build up around the coils blocks proper heat transfer from taking place and as a result you have poor air conditioning.
To save energy and have a comfortable house, AC contractors recommend that you clean your air filter once every month. If it’s too dirty, you should replace it. When buying the new air filter buy a pleated synthetic filter with a filter performance rating of 5.
Your AC has a problem if the refrigerant is running out
The refrigerant is kept in two sealed pipes that connect between the evaporator coils and condenser unit. Since it’s reused and constantly circulated, you don’t need to refill it. If during inspection you notice that it’s getting low, there must be a leakage that should be addressed immediately. Hire a HVAC company to identify the leak and fix it before things get out of hand.
You don’t have to clean your AC duct system unless it’s blocked
Contrary to popular opinion, you don’t have to clean your duct work as there isn’t a proper way of doing it. The simplest and most effective way of ensuring that your ducts remain clean is sealing them. Contact a local AC contractor and ask him/her to evaluate your system and seal all the joints. It’s also recommended that you insulate the ducts. When insulating the units go for insulation wrap backed with foil. Avoid plastic wraps as they break down fast.
Secure your AC’s outside unit
The outside unit contains copper wire that is often sold to scrap metal dealers. Due to this, the unit is always in constant risk of getting stolen. To protect it ensure that AC contractors installing it properly secure it. It’s also wise that you keep it out of plain view using hedges or fence that also functions as a shade. When installing the fence or hedges be cautious that you don’t chock the unit preventing adequate air circulation.
Conclusion
These are 4 things that you need to know about your air conditioner. To keep your unit in perfect condition, schedule annual inspection from experienced HVAC contractors.
