If you live in Oro Valley, Tucson, Catalina Foothills, or Casas Adobes, AZ, you’re no stranger to the essential role that functional air conditioning and heating systems play in your home. And while your first instinct might be to call on professional services such as Dynamic Comfort AC and Heating, there are instances where a little bit of DIY can save you time and money. Here are some DIY tips that will come in handy when dealing with your AC and Heating system.
Regularly Replace or Clean Your AC Filters
One of the simplest yet most effective things you can do to maintain your air conditioning system is regularly cleaning or replacing your filters. Dirty, clogged filters obstruct normal airflow and significantly reduce a system’s efficiency. When airflow is impeded, air that bypasses the filter may carry dirt directly into the evaporator coil and impair its heat-absorbing capacity. Replacing a dirty, clogged filter with a clean one can reduce your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%.
Keeping Your AC Coils Clean
The AC coils and fins on the exterior of your air conditioner require regular maintenance for the unit to function effectively and efficiently throughout its years of service. Over time, the AC condenser coil collects dirt; this dirt reduces airflow and insulates the coil, reducing its ability to absorb heat. To avoid these problems, check your evaporator coil every year and clean it as necessary. Outdoor condenser coils can also become very dirty if the outdoor environment is dusty or if there is foliage nearby.
Checking Your AC for Potential Problems
Often, your air conditioner can show signs of potential problems that you can address before they turn into extensive damage. Listen to see if your air conditioner makes unusual noises. A buzzing sound could indicate an electrical issue, while a banging sound could mean a part is loose. A frozen evaporator coil could produce a sizzling or hissing sound. If your air conditioner continues to produce these sounds despite high performance, it might be time to call on the professionals for AC repair services.
Sealing Your Heating and Cooling Ducts
Improving your home’s duct system, which is often made from sheet metal, flex duct, or other material, can increase efficiency by 20% or more and distribute conditioned air more comfortably throughout your home. You can improve your duct’s performance by sealing leaks and insulating ducts, especially those running through the attic, crawlspace, unheated basement, or garage. Various sealants are sold explicitly for sealing ductwork, which you can often find at home improvement stores.
Keep in mind these are tips for basic maintenance and smaller issues. All major problems should be left to a professional AC service. Stay cool, and don’t forget to keep up on regular maintenance to get the most out of your air conditioning and heating system.