HVAC systems are a critical component of any home and proper maintenance could extend its lifetime. But can you do the AC maintenance yourself? Here are some tips.
Regularly replace air filters
Standard thin air filters (1-2 in) that are located at registers should be replaced every 2-3 months. Thick (4 in) air filters that are usually located inside the indoor AC unit could be replaced every 9-12 months. Please also pay attention to the airflow efficiency value of an air filter (so-called MERV) which ranges from 1 to 12: the higher the number, the better filtration it provides, but more energy needed to pull air through it, which affects energy costs. So, you have to find a balance between airflow, air quality and energy efficiency. Filters of the ductless mini split could be washed from time to time and placed back.
Make sure air filters are in place
Make sure your HVAC system does not run without air filters. Absence of air filters will lead to contamination of the blower and evaporator coil inside the indoor unit. The AC system will not run effectively because of that and the evaporator coil cleaning could be a complicated task.
Outdoor unit cleaning
Outdoor unit (also called Condenser unit or External unit) is the unit located outside of the house and is susceptible to external pollution, that’s why debris gets stuck between the condenser unit fins. If the outdoor unit is dirty then there will be no heat removal and AC won’t work effectively. Good practice for DIYers is to take apart the side panels of the outdoor unit, brush fins of the coil (or use vacuum cleaner) and rinse it with water using your garden hose. Please make sure you disconnect the outdoor unit from the power source before washing it. Cleaning of the condenser unit should be performed on a regular basis, at least once per year. If outdoor unit fins are bent – you can straighten them using a special tool (looks like a comb). If the outdoor unit is fully clogged then brushing and rinsing is not enough, you should apply an HVAC foam after brushing in order to dissolve the dirt. Once dirt has come off – coils can be rinsed using water. Please also keep the area surrounding the outdoor unit free from plants, trees or other objects at least a 3-4 ft around the unit.
Keep AC drain line clean
Keeping AC drain line clean is vital since HVAC systems are installed in a way that they are shut off if the drain line is clogged and there is an overflow of the water. Furthermore, timely maintaining the drain line helps to avoid flooding the house. Pour a cup of vinegar or disinfecting bleach inside the drain pipe near the indoor AC unit, wait for 10-15 minutes and then rinse the pipe with water. This procedure should be performed before the summer season, once during the summer and then at the end of the summer.
If you live in Austin area in Texas and need AC, Heat Pump, Furnace, Ductless Mini Split repair or cleaning services – please call us on (737) 757-7313 or send us an email at support@fuseatx.com, or you can also book an appointment online or leave a request to call you back on our website. We will do our best to help you to find a solution that will meet your needs.