Air conditioning systems do more than excellent the air; they regulate temperatures, control humidity, and ensure the indoor environment is healthy. Regular upkeep of these systems increases their lifespan and performance. A basic understanding of the components of an AC system can empower homeowners to tackle minor issues, such as replacing air filters or resetting a tripped circuit breaker.
Check the Air Filter
The importance of AC repair in Forney, cannot be overstated, especially during the sweltering summer months. A reliable air conditioner provides comfort and protects your health and well-being. If your AC isn’t working correctly, you should first replace the air filter. A clogged one restricts airflow and can lead to significant unit issues, high electricity bills, and reduced lifespan.
If you need help with this, ask your service technician for a lesson. They can show you where the air filter is located (some have slots, while others use metallic grates that you’ll need to unscrew) and how to remove it and insert a new one. Then, you can purchase replacement filters at your local hardware store. Make sure the new ones match your current model.
Once you’ve put a fresh disposable or clean, dry reusable filter into your AC unit, make sure it has the arrows on the frame pointing toward the unit to ensure proper airflow. You’ll also want to be sure the size is correct, as the last thing you want is a new air filter to get stuck in the unit.
If you’re using a ductless mini-split AC system with an outdoor unit and multiple interior units without ductwork, you’ll need to clean the dust that settles in the tray on top of the unit. You can do this by blowing compressed air across the coils in short bursts to scour away dirt and grime, which can reduce efficiency and cause various problems.
Check the Condensate Drain
During the summer, the condensate drain of your AC unit may become clogged with mildew, mold, and algae. It can affect your unit’s performance, energy efficiency, and longevity. Regular maintenance and inspection of your AC’s drain line will help avoid clogs and other issues.
Before you begin cleaning, ensure your AC system’s power is off. The best way to do this is to switch it off at its breaker box and thermostat. Then, locate the ac drain line. It’s usually a T-shaped vent with a cap that covers the opening. Remove the cap to inspect and clean your AC’s drain line.
If you notice a blockage, utilize a wire brush to dislodge it. After sweeping the area, you can use a wet/dry vacuum to remove any remaining debris. Once you’ve removed all visible buildup, pour a mixture of distilled white vinegar and water down the drain line. It will break down clogs, kill any mildew or mold, and flush the line of any remaining debris.
You can also try running clean water through the drain line to flush it and attaching a garden hose to its opening, spraying in short bursts. Repeat this process until the water runs cleanly out of your AC’s drain line. If this doesn’t work, call a professional.
Check the Thermostat
Thermostats are one of the most essential parts of an AC unit, as they help regulate the system’s functionality. If they have communication problems with the rest of the system, it will cause issues in your home’s comfort. The good news is that this problem can be easily diagnosed and fixed.
First, make sure your thermostat is getting power. You can check the display screen to see if it’s lit up and functioning correctly. If the power is out, check the circuit breaker or fuse box to see if it has tripped.
If your thermostat can get power but cannot communicate with the air conditioning unit, it could be due to dirt and grime. You can clean your thermostat by removing the cover (this may require screwdrivers, depending on your model). Then, use a toothbrush to remove any dust or debris collected inside. If there are points where the electronic components touch, you can also slide an open dollar bill or dental floss between them to loosen and remove any dust.
Switching out the batteries (if applicable) is also a good idea, as well as ensuring they are fresh. If these troubleshooting steps do not work, it’s time to call a professional for further assistance.
Check the Coil
Keeping your AC unit’s evaporator coil clean can help prevent it from freezing when the airflow is restricted. Your air conditioning system’s proper functioning depends on the evaporator coil. It is essential to have this component to maintain the desired temperature in your home or office. Hence, ensuring that the evaporator coil is in good working condition is essential, and any issues should be addressed promptly to avoid any inconvenience. It works by circulating refrigerant and absorbing heat from the indoor air before releasing it outdoors.
Before cleaning the coil, turn off the power to your air conditioner. It’s also a good idea to have your owner’s manual nearby and ask an experienced local air conditioning repair service to show you where the coil is and how to access it safely.
Using a pair of gloves, locate the screws or bolts holding the top cover and fan in place (a drill may be helpful for this). If they’re loose, remove them and set them aside (you might want to put them in a container, too).
After the screws have been removed, gently remove the fan and the coil and wipe it down with a soft, damp cloth. You can also spray the coils with a foaming cleaner and let them sit for the time suggested on the label. Afterward, rinse the coils with your hose until they’re clean.
A clogged coil causes your air conditioner to work harder, increasing energy costs and decreasing cooling efficiency. It can also lead to over-stressing of other components and system breakdowns, potentially leading to expensive repairs or replacements.
