Like all mechanical equipment, air conditioners require regular maintenance and tune ups or they will: lose efficiency, have an increased chance of breaking down, cost more to run, and have a shorter life expectancy.
Below are some simple hints and tips on how you can maintain your air conditioner and save yourself hassles down the track.
CLEANLINESS
Change or clean the filters regularly. Dirty filters restrict air flow, reducing efficiency and can cause the evaporator to ice up. Disposable filters and electrostatic or electronic filters should be cleaned regularly and replaced after time.
CLEAR OBSTRUCTIONS
An air conditioner should never have obstacles in front of it. Clear obvious obstructions such as plants, bins, bikes, etc, from around the outdoor unit to prevent “re-circulation” issues which effect efficiency and incorrect airflow temperatures.
TEMPERATURE SETTINGS
Air conditioners work to cool or warm your home to create a comfortable living environment. When operating your air conditioner, it is advised that a set point of 22 to 23 degrees be used in the summer months with a set point of 19 to 20 in the winter months, this will give comfortable temperatures in your home and help reduce energy costs. Set points below 20 degrees are not advised as these can cause the air conditioner to ice up and cause other issues within the system.
DE-ICE
In colder months, you may find that the air conditioner blows cold air inside and therefore, may have a build up of ice on the outdoor unit. Depending on the age of the unit, it will most likely have a de-ice function that allows it to monitor the ice build up on the outdoor unit and will occasionally go into the de-ice mode to clear the ice. The full de-icing mode can last up to 30 minutes. Please do not attempt to turn off the system during this mode to ensure the air conditioner completes its procedures in full.
TESTING
Be sure to run your air conditioner for a few minutes before the peak seasons to test its operation and overall condition. Having your system checked and serviced on a regular basis is the best way to ensure effective and efficient operation and reduce the chance of unit breakdown.
MAINTENANCE
Pre Season Maintenance is a must! Air Conditioners, like cars, need regular service and maintenance to improve your chances of efficient and effective operation. Have your system serviced and inspected by qualified technicians to reduce the chance of unit breakdown when you need it most.
FLUSH DRAINS
Sometimes your drainage systems can become more of a problem then you can handle on your own. You can prevent clogs by making sure that your drains are flushed out before every summer, to ensure that they are free from blockage.
ZONES
Ducted systems have been set up to air condition a certain number of zones at a time, ensure doors and windows to rooms not being conditioned are closed to ensure the best efficiency possible. Turn your system off before switching zones to reduce the chance of damper motor failure.
HVAC
HVAC refers to heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Mr Goodair is experienced in all areas of HVAC equipment and is ready to assist with your service, repairs or maintenance today.