If you live in a warm climate, or have a house that was built in the last 20 years, there’s a good chance that a central air system is responsible for keeping your home at a comfortable temperature. And if you don’t want things to get too hot, it’s essential to keep your system properly maintained.
Jay Teller, a service technician with Southern Comfort Heating & Cooling in Bradenton, Florida, recommends that homeowners – particularly those who live in warmer areas and run their A/C year-round – have their systems checked “at least every six months.” In addition, Teller says, “You should check your filter at least every 30 days.”
Filter Facts
The filter – which, depending on your system, may be located under the air handler (the inside component) or in the return (the vent where air is pulled in) – catches impurities, and the dirtier it gets, the more the airflow is restricted. When airflow is restricted, the compressor (the outdoor component) has to work harder, leading to higher electric bills and increasing the likelihood of costly repairs. Failure to clean or replace the filter regularly can also shorten the lifespan of your system.
Most service companies offer some kind of routine maintenance program, and having a trained technician check your system periodically is an important step in preventing problems before they occur. And to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth, this semi-annual service should include:
- Cleaning the evaporator coil, drain pan and line, blower motor and condenser coil;
- In coastal areas, treating outdoor components with marine lubricant to prevent rust;
- Checking refrigeration levels and adjusting the charge accordingly;
- Checking electrical connections and mechanical components;
- Checking pressure for subcool and superheat; and
- Washing or replacing filter.
A central air system “is like a car,” says Teller. “If you don’t keep it maintained, you start losing mileage.”
Routine maintenance
And during the long hot days of summer, that’s not mileage you can really afford to lose. So in between service checks, it’s a good idea to take care of your central air system so that it will take care of you when you need it. In addition to checking the filter monthly, be sure to make sure the condenser isn’t getting blocked up with leaves, debris or dryer lint. If your dryer is venting near the condenser, buy an extension unit and direct the discharge away from the A/C unit.
Finally, if you don’t have one already, consider investing in a programmable thermostat. In addition to saving you money by shutting off the air when you’re not around (or when the days are cooler), it will help keep you from overburdening your system.
Following this practical advice can help ensure that, even when the outside temperature is on the rise, you remain a cool customer.
