Carrying out annual checks on your air conditioning system

All homeowners know the importance of having a well-functioning air conditioning system, yet few really know how to make sure their system stays in good working order. The key is in the regular checks that all owners should be doing.

Use this four-point checklist to test your air conditioning system each year:

1. Clean the evaporator if you can access it. If not, have it cleaned by a professional service provider. The evaporator is usually located just above the oven. On some models, this part of the system is not easily accessible and should only be professionally cleaned, although other systems make it easy for an owner to access to clean. If in doubt, call a professional the first time to make sure this is something you can handle every year.

2. Clean condenser coil. In most cases, you should be able to get to this part of the system because it is usually outside the house on a concrete slab. Be sure to prevent grass and shrubs from growing on this unit because if airflow is blocked, efficiency will be greatly affected. Use a commercial coil cleaner to clean the condenser, then rinse the coil. Avoid using a hose for this because you could end up accidentally clogging the unit. Look for a tool known as a fin comb to clean between the small spaces.

3. Check fluid levels. This is another item that some homeowners may feel comfortable with, while others may want to leave it to the professionals. With some models, it’s pretty easy to see how much refrigerant is in the system. If the number is too high or too low, then it’s time to call a professional to repair or charge it. In cases where there is not enough refrigerant, the problem is usually a leak in the system. You should always leave major repairs to a professional, although it helps to know how to spot a problem before it becomes serious.

4. Have the thermostat tested regularly. Every year it is essential to have your thermostat checked by a professional service provider so you know it will keep your home at the temperature you want. Testing the thermostat is a fairly complex process that most homeowners won’t want to tackle on their own.

Of course, there are other things you can do to keep your air conditioning system in tip-top condition and save money on your electric bill, too. For example, running your dehumidifier can make the system work harder because the extra airflow makes it seem like there’s a bigger space to cool. If you use a dehumidifier, make sure it is not running at the same time as the air conditioner.

Also avoid turning the air off and then turning it back on within five minutes. This places a heavy load on the system and can cause problems such as blown fuses or even more serious permanent damage to the compressor.

It is critical that you let a professional air conditioning service provider handle any and all repairs to evaporator and condenser system parts. Both units are sealed and the entire system should be checked annually by a professional in addition to regular checks by the owner.