Air conditioners are a crucial part of many homeowners’ comfort systems. They provide cooling when temperatures are hot and they dehumidify during humid weather, so it’s important to maintain these units properly and avoid costly repair bills.
Fortunately, there are several maintenance steps you can do yourself to keep your unit running smoothly and at its best, especially if you’re looking for ways to save money on repair costs. Performing these tasks regularly will help ensure that your air conditioner stays as efficient and as reliable as possible, and will extend its lifespan.
The two most basic HVAC maintenance tasks are regular filter replacements and condenser & evaporator coil cleanings. These routine steps will keep your AC unit operating at its peak efficiency and minimize the need for expensive repairs, and they are easy to do on your own.
Filter Changes
One of the most common problems for a typical home’s AC system is a dirty air filter. Changing the filter at least twice a year will help prevent dust, pollen and other contaminants from entering your home and affecting its overall air quality. A clean filter will also allow more air to flow through your air conditioning unit, increasing its efficiency and saving you money on your energy bill.
Evaporator Coil Cleaning
To clean a clogged evaporator coil, remove the foil-wrapped insulation from the front of the plenum, then take off the access plate that’s held in place by screws. Using the edge of a screwdriver, pry out the aluminum fins and brush them down. If you’re unsure how to do this, ask a technician for a recommendation or read your owner’s manual for more detailed instructions.
Check Coolant Line Insulation
Another common problem for a faulty evaporator is a damaged or worn-out hose. This may be caused by a variety of factors, including moisture in the line or corrosion on the copper refrigerant lines that go outside your evaporator unit.
Replacing a broken or damaged hose is an easy DIY project that will save you money in the long run. It’s a good idea to replace any damaged or worn-out hose as soon as possible to maximize the cooling efficiency of your air conditioner.
Depending on the type of system you have, repairing an air conditioning unit can vary in cost. Generally, larger, more complex systems are more costly to repair than smaller window or portable units.
The parts and components inside an AC unit determine how much a repair costs. The most costly parts are usually the most complex, like the compressor and the electrical system.
When choosing a repair company, be sure to check customer reviews and ratings. Ideally, look for a BBB-approved company with an excellent reputation. You can find these on websites like TrustPilot and Google Reviews.
Troubleshooting Your Unit
The compressor in your air conditioning unit is a large and complex component, which can be difficult to access by yourself. If your Air Conditioner Repair makes strange sounds, such as rattling or clunking, this could signal an issue with the compressor that requires a professional to troubleshoot. A repair company will be able to diagnose and fix this issue quickly, and they’ll have all the tools needed to get to the source of the problem.