With the summer just around the corner, this may be the best time to check your central air conditioning system to ensure it is functioning properly. It’s always advisable to have the system checked first especially if it has been off for months. Some problems are minor and can be handled as a DIY while others, however, need a qualified technician to repair. Discussed below are a few tips on how to maintain and service HVAC systems in your house.
The first step in troubleshooting all electrical appliances is making sure it isn’t plugged in and turned off. For the air conditioner, you will need to ensure both the condenser and evaporator are off.
The Evaporator
The evaporator should be the first place you look when maintaining any air conditioning system. You need to make sure the evaporator is clean and free from any impurities. The evaporator can be found in the ducts above the furnace. Although not readily accessible, the evaporator should be cleaned at least once in a year. Most evaporators have a thick insulation lining, which has to be moved aside to access it. Some air conditioner manufacturers however protect the evaporator with a metal sealing. If you find a sealed metal box, it would then be advisable to have a trained professional do the cleaning.
If only an insulation is wrapped on the evaporator, remove the insulation carefully while preserving the tape, and then unscrew the access plate.
You will need a stiff brush to clean the evaporator’s underside. To make your work easier, use a hand mirror while cleaning the bottom. The mirror will help you see the evaporator’s blind spots. If possible, slide the evaporator a bit to access the entire bottom. You however need to be careful not to bend pipes attached to it.
You should also check and clean the condensation tray to prevent fungus growth. You will need one tablespoon of bleach to clean the weep hole. If the weep hole is clogged, use a piece of copper or straightened coat hanger to unclog it. It would be advisable to check the condensation tray every once in a while especially if it's extremely humid.
With the condensation tray clean and dry, slide the evaporator unit back to its position and re-wrap the insulation using the duct tape sealant. Turn the air conditioner on to see if there’s air leakage. Mark the leaking points then use the duct tape to seal them off.
The Condenser
Almost all central air conditioning systems have the condenser placed outside the house. It is for this reason why the condenser is prone to dust, leaf debris, and even snow. This is the reason why this part should be cleaned very often to prevent the whole system from malfunctioning. Be sure to clean the duct coil from the intake side. The system needs to be switched off when cleaning the condenser.
Clear off any weeds, vines or grass that may be growing around the condensation unit. You will also need a commercial coil cleaner to clean any debris deep within the coil. If the fan has collected dust, using a soft brush to dust the dirt off these pins. You will however have to remove the protective grille to access the fan’s fins. Never use running water to clean these fins, as this will only attract more dust, which may turn into mud on the fins.
You should be very careful when cleaning these fins as they are delicate, and any force could damage them. Most manufacturers use light aluminum to make fan pins, which makes them very sensitive. If there are bent fins, straighten them using a fin comb.
The best way to prevent damage on the condenser during fall and winter is by placing a cover over it. This prevents leaf blockage and ice damage to the same. You can also use a commercial condenser cover for maximum protection especially in extreme weather conditions.
Ensuring the central air conditioner is serviced at least once in a year can help prolong its operating life and reduce repair costs significantly. Should any repairs be needed, have a professional take care of them, as this will also help care for the system even more.
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