The Basics of Central Air Conditioner Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your air conditioning system is critical in maintaining the energy efficiency and overall life of your central air conditioning system. So what exactly does an HVAC technician actually do with your system during a service call?

Here are a few things that are done during the maintenance of your central air conditioner:

Cleaning the Condenser Unit: This involves removing leaves and debris from the outside and inside the unit. The cooling fins are cleaned. Fins that are bent are straightened. The fan motor is also lubricated so that it continues to run smoothly and quietly.

Checking the Evaporator Drain: The evaporator coils for most central air conditioning units are sealed, and can be accessed only by a licensed technician. The evaporator drain carries moisture away from the evaporator coils. If water appear beneath the coils, then it's possible that the drain pipe is likely clogged and should be cleared and cleaned.

Changing the Air Filter: This one is easy, and should actually be done by the homeowner at least once a month when the AC is used heavily. Sometimes the filter may be located on the condenser, other times it may be found around the evaporator. To change the air filter, you must remove any grilles or housing, makes sure the area is free dirt, and then replace the filter with another of the exact same type. You can find the filter part number and size dimensions on the old filter.

Air Duct Inspection and Cleaning: A single leak in your ductwork could be costing you up to 25% of the efficiency of your home's heating/cooling system. Checking for duct leaks is important, as it can reveal energy loss and a potential entryway for contaminants.

Dust, pollen and other contaminants in your air ducts can create a breeding ground for mold. The potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory complaints. Cleaning the ductwork removes contaminants and help increase the air flow efficiency of your ductwork.

Coolant Check: The insulation on the lines running from the condenser outside the evaporator to inside the house are checked. If they are worn or damaged, they should be replaced. If the AC system does not contain the proper amount of Freon, your system will provide very little cooling. If the system needs a charge, it will be performed. If you suspect a Freon or coolant problem, call a professional to recharge the system.

Most health risks associated with poor home air quality can be dramatically reduced or eliminated with proper system maintenance. Schedule your AC maintenance appointment annually.