Improving Your Home's EfficiencyImproving Your Home's Efficiency

Keeping your AC clean and in good repair not only keeps it in good working order, it also ensures that your unit is running at peak efficiency. Better efficiency combined with fewer repairs can save you quite a bit of cash in the long run. The following tips can help you maintain a clean unit along with regular air conditioning services.

Tip #1: Filter Maintenance

Most people know that the AC filter needs tchanged every month when the unit is in operation. What you may not know is that you usually have a choice of filters. Instead of using a throw-away option, look into reusable filters. These are rinsed off each month and reused. They cost more up front, but the savings build over time when you aren't buying new filters. You can even purchase HEPA style filters, which take the finest particulates out of the air. These are very helpful if there are allergies in your household.

Tip #2: Clear the Main Unit

Often, the main condenser unit sits on a concrete pad next to the house. Leaves, weeds, and other debris may collect around it. This blocks air circulation around and inside the unit, so it has to work harder to run. Before running your AC for the first time each summer, make sure leaves and other winter debris are cleared away from the unit. Then, check the unit at least once a month to make sure no weeds or other items have infringed upon its space.

Tip #3: Clean the Fans

The blower fans are located inside the main condenser unit. If your unit is on the ground, you can clean these yourself. You may want to hire an AC professional to clean the unit annually if it is located on your roof. To clean the fans, cut the power supply to the AC. Next, remove the access panel on top of the unit. It's usually held in place with a couple of screws. Finally, vacuum the dirt off the fan blades with a shop vac and then wipe them clean with a rag. You should also use the shop vac to clear out any debris inside the unit.

Tip #4: Hose Down the Condenser

With the top panel off, you should be able to see the condenser coils inside the unit. These are probably quite dusty. You can simply spray these clean with water from your garden hose. They should dry quickly on a sunny day, then you can replace the access panel. The fan and condenser usually only require once yearly cleaning.