Springtime isn’t just synonymous with blooming flowers and green grass. It’s also the best time to get your ducted air conditioning system in peak condition for the warmer months ahead. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to maintain your system before the heat wave hits. So you can be more comfortable than ever this summer.
Why Every Homeowner Should Do This Once a Year
Spring is a great time for homeowners to take a look at their ducts and clean out the leaves, debris. And other matter that has built up over the winter. By doing this regularly, you can ensure that your system will run efficiently in the summer. You should call the professionals such as ducted air conditioning Sydney contractors for maintenance of your AC.
The following is a list of things you will need for this task:
- Vacuum cleaner and vacuum hose
- Rags or paper towels for wiping away debris on the floor and furniture around the air conditioners base. (note: do not use wet clothes that may drip)
- Basic troubleshooting tools – electrician’s tape, wire strippers, screwdriver, pliers (or Allen wrench), voltage meter
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Gloves
Follow the Manufacturer’s Recommendations
Keep your air conditioner in proper operating condition by following all of the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations. Pay close attention to any filters on your unit, and clean or replace them as necessary. Dirty filters restrict airflow, which can lead to short cycling of the compressor, increased energy use. And decreased airflow through the system and into your home. A dirty filter also slows down the coolant flow, reducing the efficiency of your system.
Clean the Condenser Coil
Place a soft brush or vacuum cleaner attachment around the edges of the coils. Then use the brush or vacuum cleaner to create suction for about 30 seconds. Repeat this process a few times to remove any dirt and dust that may have accumulated. Since dirt and dust can build up in your condenser coils and restrict airflow. Performing regular cleanings is necessary for optimum air quality. It is quite a tricky task and you should consider calling professionals like air conditioning Sydney contractors for this task.
Check the Air Filter
When performing your weekly routine inspection of the duct work, if you find that the air filter is dirty and not functioning correctly. It should be replaced. Dirty filters restrict airflow and decrease system efficiency. The life of your unit will depend on how often you change this component. And how dusty the environment is in which it operates. Typically, a filter will need to be changed every 6 months for homes with light dust levels and every 3 months for those homes with heavy dust loads.
Change the Air Filter
It is also essential to replace the air filter in your home. Air filters can become clogged with dust and debris over time. Leading to poor indoor air quality and a decrease in efficiency. To do this: – Shut off the power and make sure the unit is cool before touching it. Clean any debris or dust from the grille that covers the unit’s blower fan. Remove the old filter by pulling it straight out of its slot.
Adjust the Thermostat
Adjusting the thermostat is one of the most important aspects of spring maintenance for your ducted AC. In winter, your home may be up to 10 degrees cooler than outside, so the temperature should be lowered at night or when you are not home. You might want to set it to 68 degrees or higher to cool and dehumidify your house. Depending on when and how often you use the unit.
Do a Realistic Load Calculation
This calculator will calculate the approximate Realistic Load on your system, which is a measure of how much electricity your system can consume at any given time. To do this calculation, you will need to know how many air conditioning hours you use in one day.
Consider an Energy Audit
Find a company that will come out and do an energy audit of your home. This is an important step because you need to know the efficiency of your ducted air conditioning system, whether or not it needs replacement, what areas of your home are leaking air, and then make any necessary repairs. Once the fix has been made, it’s time for cleaning.
Final Words
A ducted air conditioning system must be properly maintained to ensure it runs smoothly and continues to deliver cool air throughout the year. This can be hard, though, as there are several different components that all need regular attention. However, with the tips that are mentioned above, you’ll learn how to manage the maintenance of your ducted air conditioning.
