WACO, Texas (July 29, 2014) – The hot summer weather means homeowners will be increasingly reliant on air conditioning to make the long, hot days more tolerable. Aire Serv has five maintenance tips homeowners should do to keep air conditioners running smoothly through the summer months.
How to deal with moisture
Air conditioning systems should not have moisture within the refrigeration system. Most systems have moisture indicators located on the high or low-pressure lines. Once the system is running and the compressor has started, a color indicator on the pressure line will show if moisture is present. If moisture is in the refrigeration system, a trained air conditioning technician will have to vacuum the line and make any necessary repairs.
Cleaning air conditioning condenser coils
At a minimum, air conditioning condenser coils should be cleaned at least twice a year. It is best to clean the condenser coils before starting the system for the season and again when the weather starts to get hot for prolonged periods of time. Typically the second cleaning will be done in July or early August. If the system is located near trees, it may require additional cleanings to keep debris from entering the system and blocking the coils.
Maintaining the evaporator coil
The evaporator coil is an important part of an air conditioning system. Air conditioning evaporator coils are used to transfer heat. The heat transfer surfaces should be kept clean so airflow is not obstructed. Homeowners should ensure filters are present, clean and changed out regularly.
Inspect for leaks
Air conditioning units should be checked for any leaks that may have occurred when it is not in operation. Air conditioning systems should also be checked during operation and after the system has been shut down. Preventative maintenance can keep repairs and costs down. Checking for leaks will prevent air conditioning systems from sustaining more damage, and it is also good for the environment.
Understand normal air conditioning operation
The best way homeowners can tell if something is wrong is by understanding how the air-conditioning system should sound and appear. If the system is vibrating loudly, making abnormal sounds or not performing the way it was, you will want to have it checked by a licensed technician.