Keeping Your Air Conditioner Running Smoothly

With summer here, air conditioners are used more than ever. In Arizona, the summers are unforgiving, and the temperatures can become dangerous. An air conditioner tune up in Scottsdale may be ideal before it becomes any hotter. No one wants to have to buy a new unit, and keeping good care of your air conditioner will prevent having to overhaul and buy a new one, or cause your current unit to have to work harder than it does. These few tips can help you save some money, as well as keep your air conditioner blowing that refreshing cool air on you all day.

Insulating your duct work will help save money. Air ducts usually run through the attic where it is warmer and this alone is worth investing in an extra wrap of insulation around the duct. Plastic breaks down over time, so get the wrap that is backed by foil instead. Make sure to clean your outside unit regularly. Dirt and dust and other debris can get caught in there and this will cause your unit to work harder than needed. Make sure none of the vents are blocked and they are cleared out. Wash off the unit once a year by turning it off, and using a garden hose. Between the fins, not against them as this can bend them. Finally, make sure that your outside unit is secure. People may not want the entire unit, but the copper inside is valuable. Make sure it is visible to the eye from the inside and hide it with fences or walls. 

3 Tips to Help the Efficiency of Your AC Unit This Summer

1.      Insulate the “cool line” – This runs from the condenser to the compressor – make sure it’s insulated with snap – on urethane or other high R-value insulation – ask the guys at your local hardware or refrigeration store.

2.      Temperature difference check – This is critically important! Use two thermometers at the same time to measure the warm return air entering the evaporator coil and the coil discharge air entering the house. The difference between the two measurements should be at least 12F to 16F or greater. If it shows a lower temperature difference,, you should have the refrigerant checked by an air conditioning tune up in Scottsdale serviceman. It could be that the system needs to be recharged with coolant or the compressor is not working efficiently.

3.      Replace or clean the filter at least once a month – This is so important. This is what catches dust, pollens, and other allergens, preventing them from entering your house. And if it’s chocked with dust and pet hair, it slows down the cold airflow, making the system run harder and longer – and cost you more money.

Source Article - AFMHeatCool