Air Conditioner Service Made Easy
Air-Conditioning
Air conditioner service is something that can be intimidating to the regular homeowner. However, it doesn't have to be. There are several aspects of air conditioner service that any do it yourselfer can do. Servicing your air conditioner on your own will not only give you a certain level of satisfaction from doing it yourself, but it will also save you a lot of money.
What You Will Need Air Conditioner Service Made Easy
Screwdriver
Volt Meter
Air Filter
Replacement Cord
Small Gear Oil
Step 1 - Realize the Importance of Air Conditioner Service
While you air conditioner is a very durable appliance, being able to withstand quite a bit of abuse, it will not last forever. In fact, one of the biggest things that cause problems with air conditioning units is lack of maintenance. If the air conditioner is not maintained regularly, you can lose up to 5 percent of its operating efficiency each year. Studies show that regular maintenance, and servicing, will help to keep your air conditioner running at peak efficiency.
Step 2 - Keep Coils Clean
To keep your air conditioner operating efficiently, you need to keep it clean. Just keeping it clean will prevent a lot of different repairs that need to be made. The coils are the part that the blows through and is cooled down from. Keeping these clean will keep your air clean.
Step 3 - Check Freon Level
The chemical in the air conditioner that actually cools the air off is called Freon. If your Freon levels is low by only 10% will cost at least 25% more to operate. Adding more Freon to your air conditioner is something that is regulated by the government. Take great caution when adding this chemical.
Step 4 - Oil Fan Motors
If you notice that your air conditioner is not putting out the cold air like it use to, you might just need to oil the fan motor. Remove the housing of the air conditioning unit to expose the fan. It is usually on the side or in between the condenser and cooling coils. Squirt some of the gear oil, or even silicone lubricant, onto the spindle of the fan motor.
Step 5 - Change Air Filter
By simply changing out the air filter you are helping to prevent costly repairs down the road. If the air filter is clogged, or full of dirt, not only will it spread impure air into your room, but also cause it to work harder. When it works harder, the motor gets hotter, freezing will occur, and you will use more energy.
Step 6 - Replace Cord
When you air conditioner is not working correctly, or the cord has been frayed from installing and removing it each season, simply replace it with a new one. Remove the air conditioner from the housing and locate the point where the cord enters the motor housing. Disconnect the clamp and unscrew the screws that hold the wires from the cord to the electrical panel. Screw in the new wires and connect the clamp back in place. Re-install the unit back into the housing and plug in.