Air Conditioning Tips
Cooling and ventilation are as important as heating, and there are many systems available, from fans to air conditioners. Choose carefully, according to your needs and the local climate, so you can regulate your home’s temperature for both comfort and energy efficiency. The more efficient the cooling equipment, the less power required, which saves energy and money.
The two basic types of residential air conditioners are room units and central systems. A central system circulates cool air throughout the entire house by means of vents, while and a room air conditioner installed in a window cools only the room it is in. A third type of air conditioner is the heat pump which is available in a single unit for one room, or a split system which will accommodate up to four rooms with one exterior unit.
Everyone has a temperature level that they are comfortable with and are willing to pay for. Keep in mind that each degree setting below 78°F will increase your energy consumption by approximately 8%, and over a years time can add up to a lot of money.
Every spring, inspect and clean both the indoor and outdoor AC/Heating coils as they are magnets for dust. Dust accumulation can cause poor efficiency and it is not only an energy burner, but is a strain on the system; causing a shorter life of the unit. Another energy saver is to delay heat-generating activities, such as dish-washing or baking, until the evening on hot days.
Maintenance on a room unit:
Change the filter several times during the cooling season. If the filter is permanent, soak it in warm, soapy water and rinse. At the beginning of the cooling season, vacuum the evaporator coils, which lie behind the filter.
Check to see that the unit slants slightly toward the ground, so that condensed water flows out. During the off-season, cover the outside of the unit to prevent rusting.
Maintenance of a central system
First and most important, change a disposable filter or wash a permanent one several times during the cooling season. If the filter is permanent, soak it in warm, soapy water and rinse.
In the late winter, have a professional wash the condensing coils, oil the fan motor with motor oil, if required, and vacuum the evaporator coils located in the ducting above the furnace. A professional will have the equipment to check and charge the refrigerant if needed.
Throughout the year, check regularly to make sure that leaves or fallen branches aren’t covering the fan grill on the outdoor condensing unit. If you live in an extremely cold climate, you should cover the outdoor condensing unit with a waterproof tarp during the cold months.
Category: Home maintenance
