Air conditioning systems are pretty complex, so it might seem impossible to prevent damage to its parts. However, preventing your air conditioner from malfunctioning really traces back to preventing three main issues.
Issue #1: Debris Buildup
There are two main areas where you want to prevent debris from entering your air conditioner. The first is outside at your condensing unit. The second is indoors where your duct work meets the blower unit. Debris buildup in either of these locations decreases efficiency and makes your air conditioner work harder to cool your home, which causes premature wear and tear.
You can prevent debris buildup in your condenser by keeping weeds around it well trimmed and by putting a heavy board on top of it during the winter months to ensure snow does not pile up in the fan. Prevent debris buildup in the blower by changing your air filter every 1 - 2 months and by having your ductwork cleaned every few years.
Issue #2: Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant lines are usually damaged during faulty installation. They may also be damaged by mischievous visitors who are trying to steal or tamper with your air conditioner. Have your unit installed by a reputable, experienced HVAC technician, and keep it in a fenced-in area. Do not try to fix or repair the unit yourself, as you may accidentally damage the refrigerant lines.
Issue #3: Plugged Drainage Tubes
Your air conditioner removes humidity from your home and shuttles it down a drainage tube into a drain. Some systems may feed this moisture into a pump, which propels it through another tube and into a sink or drain. Drainage tubes can become plugged with mold or mildew, and if they become plugged, your basement may flood with water. Your air conditioner unit will generally shut off if the condensation builds up inside of it in order to prevent damage.
To keep your drainage tubes from becoming plugged, locate and check on them every few months. If you notice any mold or mildew buildup in the tubes, use a wet-vac to suck it out, and dip the ends of the tubes in a bleach solution to kill the mold.
If you keep your air conditioner condenser and blower free from debris, prevent refrigerant line leaks, and keep your drainage tubes clear, you'll reduce your risk of AC problems. If you have any questions about maintaining your specific AC unit, speak to an HVAC professional like Peterson Oil.
Share14 August 2015
While sitting in my living room on a hot summer day, I could feel the heat coming through the ceiling out of my attic and making the house warm up more than it should. I crawled up into the attic one evening to find out that the roof vents weren't working any longer because they were clogged with all sorts of debris. Did you know that when this happens, your home's temperature can rise to very uncomfortable levels? Did you know that your home could actually be damaged if the attic isn't well vented? This blog will show you all about attic ventilation.