http://www.homeimprovementhelper.com/airconditioner/diy_air_conditioner_maintenance.htm

Air Conditioner Maintenance is Crucial

Published: 01/11/2010 by Air Conditioner Contractor

It is over 90 degrees outside and you find yourself sitting on the couch sweating. You look at your thermostat and it tells you that it is hotter inside your house than it is outside, which instantly causes you to sweat more due to the anxiety of having to pay a repair bill. If this sounds like the situation you are in, chances are you have already contacted professional help to get your air conditioner up and running. If you have not experienced this yet, there are a few things you can do to prevent that from happening to you. An air conditioner, whether it is a central system or perhaps a window unit, is a vital element of any home. It is among the many things in your home that you do not want to do without. It is definitely not one of the things you want to put on the back burner when it comes to keeping it operating properly.

Your air conditioner keeps you cool in the winter and for central air systems, it keeps you warm in the winter. You want to be able to relax during the hot summer months and be warm and cozy during the winter. Proper maintenance will ensure that your unit is operating as it should, and can in turn prevent little problems from turning into major repair bills. If you have noticed that your electric bill has increased, you may want to evaluate your unit. Some people may choose to contact a professional, but there are things that you can do yourself to increase the efficiency of your system.

As with any appliance in your home, maintenance is very crucial. When it comes to your air conditioner, keeping it maintained is not only good for your wallet, but also good for your health. You are probably familiar with the filter that is used in conjunction with your air conditioner. What you may not know is that the filter actually acts as a barrier. Dust and allergens are constantly flying throughout your home, some you may not even see. The filter reduces the amount of allergens and dust that you breathe in, which in turn can keep you from becoming sick. This is really important for people who may suffer from asthma, or have children who have weak immune systems. Many people who contract colds and it takes weeks for them to shake it may not realize that their air conditioner filter may be to blame. It is very important to replace the filter at least once a month. You can check your manufacturer guide to find out which filter you need to use. It is important to have the correct type and size to reach the maximum benefits.

An air conditioner consists of several parts, but the two main parts are the condenser and the evaporator. The condenser is located outside, usually on the side or in the back of the home. You want to make sure that the unit is free of debris, such as grass or trash. You need to also make sure the blades are free of any build-up which can prevent them from turning properly. These are usually made out of aluminum, so when cleaning these, you need to be careful not to bend them. You can use a soft brush or rag to get rid of any build-up. In the winter, you will need to keep the unit free of any snow or ice that may accumulate. This can bog down the unit causing it to run sluggish and can also cause the blades to bend. You can clean the condenser with coil cleaner, but it is always best to check with the manufacturer of the product to ensure you use the proper cleaner.

The evaporator is located near the furnace on the inside of the home. Sometimes it is difficult to reach, but if you are able to reach it, it is wise to clean it yearly if possible. The first thing you will need to do is remove the foil insulation. Once you do that, you will see the access plate that is attached with screws. You can remove those screws and clean the evaporator as well as the tray beneath it. You can do this with a stiff brush, such as the one you might use to clean your grill with. There is a weep hole that is located on the evaporator that can be a breeding ground for fungus and bacteria. You can use just a little bit of regular household bleach to prevent this from happening. Once you have cleaned the evaporator, attach the plate with the screws and replace the insulation.

After several years of operating, you will find yourself needing a new unit all together. These are one of the things that don’t have to be replaced on a regular basis, but eventually they will need to be. Simple maintenance however, can extend the life of a unit. It’s just like your car, if you never changed the oil or received a tune-up, the car would break down. Oftentimes you don’t realize the importance of things such as an air conditioner until you do not have it. Chances are when it does decide to quit working, it will be when you need it the most.
Perform the mentioned maintenance procedures before the weather gets too severe. The spring time is the best time to do any repairs because shortly after summer will approach and sometimes the temperatures can be unbearable. The fall is a great time to prepare for the winter, and nowadays it is hard to predict when snow will appear. Just remember, it may seem like a daunting task to complete, but in the end it will be worth it. Not only will you reap the benefits by having extra cash in your pocket, your health could ultimately improve. Who would have known that simple air conditioner maintenance could help you save money and stay healthy?