3 Vital Things to Remember When Maintaining Your Air Conditioning Unit

When using their home air conditioning, Perth residents need to be aware that some regular maintenance needs to be carried out. Ideally this maintenance should happen on a regular basis, or the unit can become either inefficient (costing much more energy to use), ineffectual (not working at all) or in extreme cases damaged (requiring an expensive replacement unit). Maintaining ducted air conditioning is key in three important areas.

Filters

This is probably the single most important area that requires maintenance and usually the first to require it. Dirty filters can clog the airflow within the system and reduce the efficiency significantly. Dirt can be carried into other areas of the system and compromise them causing further problems. One of the early signs is an increase in energy consumption as the system tries to carry on operating normally. If this is the problem, the filters will have to be replaced. The filters will vary in location depending on the kind of system that is fitted. Central air conditioning filters will be located somewhere along the ductwork or in the cooling unit itself. Room air conditioning units will usually have their filter located in the grill that faces towards the room. Some filters can be cleaned, and others require total replacement. When using home air conditioning, Perth residents will find it’s a good idea to replace filters every couple of months, although more frequent changes may be necessary if the occupants have allergies or furry pets.

2. Coils

The air conditioner has an evaporator coil and a condenser coil. These coils collect dirt and dust while in use, and occasionally they need to be cleaned. If the filter is kept clean, this will not need to be done too often and may only be necessary annually. Anyone looking at a coil will notice immediately if it is dirty, and it is fairly easy to clean. In order to maximise airflow, it is a good idea to ensure that cooling units mounted outside have plenty of room around them. Cutting back foliage and removing dead leaves and any litter will also help.

3. Other Considerations

Sometimes the condensate drains can become clogged. This will prevent the cooling unit from reducing humidity. This is easily remedied by probing the drain with a piece of stiff wire to remove the blockage. Another problem that is commonly encountered is perished window seals. Before the start of the cooling season check any window seals between the window frame and the metal unit of the cooling units case. The seal must make contact with the case or cool air that has been paid for could be escaping through the gaps.

As you can see some of these tasks can be carried out by someone with DIY experience, but there are some problems to look out for. Firstly, the correct filters need to be used. Secondly ensure that any parts removed are replaced in exactly the same way and resist the temptation to force or over tighten screw and fittings. Lastly, air conditioning units by their nature are usually located in hard to reach areas, always be careful using ladders and accessing roof spaces. If they require servicing for their home air conditioning, Perth residents should contact us. We have significant expertise in the field, and we will be happy to answer any questions or queries that you may have.