With summer ending in Sussex County, now is a good time to get a head start on air conditioner maintenance.
If you haven’t washed it recently, it could be full of dust and yard waste. This buildup can limit your unit’s efficiency and cause it to break down. Or require replacement sooner.
We recommend having your air conditioning system professionally maintained every year. Why? Clean equipment can be more energy efficient, which could save you money on energy costs.
Routine AC maintenance also helps our technicians discover and handle small issues before they develop into high-priced problems.
Related: How to Keep Your Air Conditioner from Failing
Some of the work we perform involves:
- Viewing the blower, motor, drain line and coils
- Watching pressure and temperature
- Reviewing lines, refrigerant totals and connections
There’s still time to have a tune-up done this fall—and we can get your furnace prepared for heating season too.
There’s also some maintenance you can do on your own between professional tune-ups. You only need about an hour to clean your outdoor condenser unit, as well as a couple of parts on your indoor HVAC system.
Related: How Often Should You Expect to Get Air Conditioning Service Done?
Tips for Cleaning the Outdoor AC Unit
Select a temperate day to scrub your air conditioner. At least 60 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) is best. That way, you can test your equipment once you’ve cleaned it.
You’ll only need a few tools:
- Wet-dry vacuum and hose with a soft brush attachment
- Screwdriver
- Butter knife
- Damp rag
- Small, round paintbrush
- Replacement furnace filter (if necessary)
Related: How AC Repair and Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
Five Steps to Clean the Outside Unit
1. Turn Off the Power
Switch off the electricity to your air conditioner at the breaker box.
2. Clean the Outside
Remove debris from the system. This includes branches, bushes, weeds and grass.
Then run the vacuum to cautiously clean the metallic fins. These parts are also referred to as condenser coils and transfer heat away from your equipment.
You need to be considerate of these fragile coils. Bent or crinkled fins can affect efficiency.
3. Fix Bent Fins
Use a butter knife to straighten bent fins. You can also buy a fin comb from an appliance part store. A pro from Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc. should handle extensive damage.
4. Clean the Inside
After removing the fan, pull out leaves and other yard waste. Then wipe the inside of the system with a wet rag.
The only coil cleaner you should use is water. Use slight pressure from a hose nozzle to clean the fins, directing water from the inside out. Replace the fan once you’re done.
5. Test Your Air Conditioner
It’s safe to restore power and turn your air conditioner back on. If it’s not running properly, contact us a call at 973-270-9244.
Related: Air Conditioner Service: Pay a Little Now, Save Later
Next, How You Can Clean the Indoor Unit
1. Turn Off the Power
Turn off the power to your furnace at the breaker box.
2. Check Your Filter
Furnace filters must be changed every few months, depending on the type you use.
Can’t remember when you last put in a new one? Take it out and hold it up to the light. If you can’t see light through it, replace it.
3. Clean the Inside
Remove the blower door and vacuum up dust.
Then inspect your air conditioner’s drain line—it’s a pliable plastic tube. If it’s dirty, you can clean it by draining watered-down bleach through the tube to sanitize the line. Or you can buy a new tube.
Wash the drain port using a small, round paintbrush. Connect the drain tube and turn the power back on.
Related: How to Keep Your Air Conditioner Running Well Through Fall
Never Forget About Maintenance Again
Annual air conditioner maintenance from Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc. can make your equipment more efficient and help it last longer. We also have convenient service agreements, so you won’t forget to book your annual service!