Here are a few tips the Affordable Service team suggests following to ensure your AC keeps you cool this Spring and Summer. Whether you are a homeowner, or someone renting and concerned with the proper maintenance of your home’s HVAC system, it’s important to understand how to keep things running smoothly, especially during hot New Mexico Summers.
Filter Maintenance
Changing your AC’s air filter regularly is necessary to keep from obstructing the airflow through the air conditioning system. If the replaceable filters are not changed every 3 to 4 weeks throughout the year, it can put undue strain on the fan motor which is responsible for circulating air over the cooling coils. Air is passed across the coils to cool the air in your home. The result is the gasses in the coils heat up and are dissipated by the exterior unit. The compressor plays a big role here, but we won’t get into that! Make sure to purchase filters that are recommended for your cooling system. For example, if you place a thick, pleated filter into an older unit, it may bog down the fan motor and you could be left with an expensive repair.
Fin Cleaning
On the exterior unit of the air conditioner, you will find cooling fins. These are part of the heat sink that dissipates the heat that is collected from the interior of your home. Expert technicians know that this part of your air conditioner looks much like an automobile radiator and must remain clean of insects, dirt, corrosion, and debris. It is recommended that it be cleaned monthly, but no less frequently than quarterly. We suggest spraying it with a light application of dish detergent followed by a good rinse with a garden hose. If the fins have not been cleaned in a long time, it may be necessary to use a power washer. It is important to also be aware of the form of the fins, as none should be bent or deformed by the cleaning process.
Refrigerant Maintenance
You will need to enlist the help of expert technicians to check the “freon” or refrigerant levels in your HVAC system. Most HVAC companies will require that your systems have their refrigerant levels adjusted to the factory specifications as well as being adjusted slightly for your individual unit’s level of performance as installed in your home.
As you can see, there are steps you can take at home to keep everything cool and running smoothly when the temperature starts to rise. By using these simple tips, you should be able to boost your AC unit’s energy efficiency and cooling performance all season long. For more information or to schedule a service appointment, reach out to the experts at Affordable Service. We are here to help!
