Homeowner Tips
Homeowner Tips
Assuring that your air conditioner is in tip top shape will ensure less headaches and a lower energy bill each season
A.
Before attempting to clean your own A/C make sure the power is TURNED OFF at the breaker and the main disconnect which is located next your condenser (the unit that’s outside) which is usually a pull handle or actual breaker.
B.
Over years of use the condenser will accumulate years of dirt and grime that needs to be cleaned off. To clean your condenser use a cleaner such as Simple Green which is non toxic to the environment and can be easily placed into a squirt bottle. You will then want to take the fan off the top of the condenser (very easy) which is usually held down by four or five screws. Again make sure all power is turned off to prevent inadvertent startup and injury. Once the fan is off just set it aside as much as possible since there are still wires connected to it from the system. Spray the cleaner on the inside of the coil which will loosen the grime. Wait about five minutes before using a garden hose to wash the cleaner off. Make sure (very important!) that you spray from the inside out in order to push all the contaminates outwards. After the cleaning is accomplished return the fan to the original position with the screws and reinstate the power back to the system via the breakers.
C.
Never allow vines or tall grass to be in contact with your A/C. Doing so will reduce the overall efficiency of the system.
D.
Usually located in the attic or closet is the air handler. The evaporator which is located inside the air handler produces condensation or moisture which is transferred to a PVC drain line. Most households now days have a Primary(main) and a secondary(backup) drain line. The primary will drain to the plumbing in your house while the secondary drains to the outside. The outside will have about 2-3 inches of PVC pipe usually protruding from the underside of the roof for units in the attic and for units in the closet will be located lower on the side of the house. In both drain lines you should notice a “T” intersection with an open air vent that allows the drain line to essentially “breathe.” Locate these 2 opening and pour about 2 cups of bleach down the drain line. The bleach will essentially kill any grime in the pipe which will prevent most blockages and the annoyance of seeing water drip outside your residence from the secondary drain line. This should be accomplished twice a year.
E.
Change your air filters every 90 days. Do not use cheap air filters which are the green and blue ones you see in the store. Use a mid grade filter that will ensure dust, pet dander, and allergens are trapped in the filter and not the evaporator. High end filters will often cause your A/C to work harder and should only be used if you have severe allergies.