As the summer months approach in Buffalo, NY, ensuring your central air conditioning unit is properly maintained is essential for keeping your home cool and comfortable. Here are some tips from Robert A. Nowak HVAC’s very own Chris Nowak on how to properly take care of your central air conditioning unit:

 

1. Change Air Filters Regularly

One of the most important maintenance tasks is to regularly change the air filters in your central air conditioning unit. Unkempt air filters can restrict airflow, reducing the efficiency of your unit and potentially causing damage. Here are a few key reasons why changing your air conditioner’s air filter is critical – not just for the well-being of your HVAC system, but for the wellbeing of your family, too.

Improved Air Quality

Regularly changing your air conditioner’s air filters is crucial for maintaining a healthy indoor environment. Air filters help remove dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, improving the overall air quality in your home. By replacing your air filters regularly, you can ensure that these particles are effectively filtered out, leading to cleaner, healthier air for you and your family to breathe.

Enhanced Energy Efficiency

Dirty or clogged air filters can restrict airflow, forcing your air conditioner to work harder to cool your home. This can lead to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills. By changing your air filters regularly, you can maintain proper airflow and improve the energy efficiency of your cooling system, saving you money in the long run.

Extended Lifespan of Your HVAC System

A clean air filter helps prevent dust and dirt from building up on the internal components of your HVAC system. This can help extend the lifespan of your system and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs. By regularly changing your air filters, you can keep your HVAC system clean and well-maintained, ensuring it operates efficiently for years to come.

Improved Cooling Performance

Proper airflow is essential for optimal cooling performance. A clean air filter allows for proper airflow, ensuring that your air conditioner can cool your home effectively and efficiently. By changing your air filters regularly, you can maintain proper airflow and ensure that your home stays cool and comfortable, even on the hottest days.

Cost-Effective Maintenance

Regularly changing your air filters can help reduce the need for costly maintenance and repairs. By keeping your HVAC system clean and well-maintained, you can avoid potential issues and extend the life of your system. Additionally, maintaining clean air filters can help improve the overall efficiency of your HVAC system, reducing energy costs and saving you money in the long run.

In conclusion, regularly changing your air conditioner’s air filters is a simple yet effective way to maintain a healthy indoor environment, improve air quality, and reduce energy costs. By making this small change to your HVAC maintenance routine, you can enjoy a healthier home and a more efficient cooling system.

 

 

2. Clean the Outdoor Central Air Conditioning Unit

The outdoor unit of your central air conditioning system can accumulate dirt, leaves, and debris, which can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency. Here’s how to effectively clean your outdoor air conditioning unit:

• Turn Off Power: Before cleaning your outdoor unit, turn off the power to the unit at the breaker box to prevent any accidents.
• Remove Debris: Clear any debris, such as leaves, grass clippings, or branches, from around the unit. Use a brush or vacuum with a soft brush attachment to gently remove debris from the fins of the unit.
• Clean the Fins: Use a fin comb or soft brush to carefully clean the fins of the unit. Be gentle to avoid bending or damaging the fins. You can also use a fin cleaner spray to help remove dirt and grime.
• Straighten Bent Fins: If you notice any bent fins, gently straighten them using a fin comb. This will help improve airflow and efficiency.
• Clean the Surrounding Area: Trim any vegetation around the unit to ensure proper airflow. Make sure there is at least two feet of clearance around the unit.
• Check the Condenser Coil: Inspect the condenser coil for any dirt or debris. If necessary, use a coil cleaner spray to clean the coil. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using coil cleaner.
• Check the Drainage: Ensure that the unit’s drainage system is clear and free of any obstructions. This will help prevent water from backing up into the unit.
• Inspect the Insulation: Check the insulation on the refrigerant lines leading into the house. Replace any damaged or missing insulation to prevent energy loss.
• Reassemble and Restore Power: Once you have finished cleaning the unit, reassemble any parts that were removed and restore power to the unit at the breaker box.

Regularly cleaning your outdoor air conditioning unit can help improve its efficiency and lifespan, ensuring that it continues to keep your home cool and comfortable for years to come.

 

 

3. Inspect the Refrigerant Lines

Check the refrigerant lines for any signs of damage or leaks.

• Why It’s Important: The refrigerant lines in your air conditioning unit play a crucial role in the cooling process. These lines carry refrigerant, which absorbs heat from inside your home and releases it outside. Checking the refrigerant lines is important to ensure that your system is operating efficiently and effectively.
• How to Check: Start by visually inspecting the refrigerant lines for any signs of damage, such as cracks, leaks, or corrosion. If you notice any issues, it’s important to address them promptly to prevent further damage to your system. You can also use a refrigerant leak detector to check for any leaks in the lines.
• Why You Should Check: Checking the refrigerant lines regularly can help you catch any potential issues early, before they escalate into larger problems. Leaking refrigerant can lead to reduced cooling performance and higher energy bills. By checking the refrigerant lines regularly, you can ensure that your system is running efficiently and avoid costly repairs down the road.
• When to Check: It’s a good idea to check the refrigerant lines at least once a year, preferably before the start of the cooling season. This will help you identify any issues and address them before you start using your air conditioning regularly.
• Professional Inspection: While you can visually inspect the refrigerant lines yourself, it’s also a good idea to have a professional HVAC technician inspect them annually. A professional can identify any potential issues and ensure that your system is operating at peak efficiency.

Checking your air conditioning unit’s refrigerant lines is an important part of regular maintenance. If you notice any issues, contact a professional HVAC technician to repair them (we’re happy to help!). By checking the lines regularly and addressing any issues promptly, you can ensure that your system is running efficiently and effectively, keeping your home cool and comfortable all summer long.

 

 

4. Schedule Regular Maintenance for your Central Air Conditioning Unit

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your air conditioning unit running smoothly and efficiently. Ask about our club membership program that offers maintenance at a reduced price! Here are a few benefits of regular maintenance for your air conditioning unit and entire HVAC system:

Improved HVAC Energy Efficiency

One of the key benefits of regular maintenance is improved efficiency. A well-maintained unit uses less energy, which can lead to lower utility bills. Additionally, proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit. By addressing minor issues early, you can prevent them from escalating into larger, more costly problems.

Reduce the Need for Costly HVAC Repairs

Another important reason to schedule regular maintenance is to reduce the need for repairs. Regular maintenance helps identify and address potential issues before they lead to a breakdown. This can save you money on costly repairs and ensure that your air conditioning unit is always running at its best. Additionally, regular maintenance can help improve the air quality in your home. A well-maintained air conditioning unit can remove dust, pollen, and other allergens from the air, creating a healthier indoor environment.

Peace of Mind Knowing Your HVAC System is Well Cared For

Scheduling regular maintenance for your air conditioning unit also provides peace of mind. Knowing that your unit is well-maintained and operating efficiently can give you confidence, especially during the hot summer months when you rely on your unit to keep your home cool and comfortable.

At Robert A. Nowak HVAC, we understand the importance of regular maintenance for your air conditioning unit. That’s why we offer Maintenance Agreements to help keep your entire HVAC system in working order. Our Maintenance Agreements include regular inspections and tune-ups for your air conditioning unit, as well as discounts on repairs and priority service. With a Maintenance Agreement from Robert A. Nowak HVAC, you can rest assured that your air conditioning unit will be well-maintained and ready to keep you cool all summer long.

 

 

5. Keep the Area Around the Central Air Conditioning Unit Clear

Maintaining a clear area around your outdoor central air conditioning unit is crucial for ensuring its efficient operation and longevity. Here’s why it’s important to keep the area around your unit clear:

Proper Airflow

Your outdoor unit requires adequate airflow to function efficiently. A buildup of debris, such as leaves, grass clippings, and dirt, can restrict airflow, causing your unit to work harder and less efficiently. By keeping the area around your unit clear, you allow for proper airflow, which helps your unit operate more effectively and can extend its lifespan.

Prevent Damage

Debris around your outdoor unit can cause damage to the unit itself. For example, if debris gets lodged in the fan blades, it can cause them to become unbalanced or even break. Additionally, debris can block the drainage holes in the unit, leading to water buildup and potential damage. Keeping the area around your unit clear reduces the risk of damage and ensures that your unit continues to operate smoothly.

Reduce Energy Consumption

When your outdoor unit has to work harder due to restricted airflow, it consumes more energy. This can lead to higher energy bills and unnecessary strain on your unit. By keeping the area around your unit clear, you can help reduce energy consumption and save money on your utility bills.

Prevent Pest Infestations

Debris around your outdoor unit can attract pests, such as insects and rodents, looking for shelter. These pests can cause damage to your unit and create a potential health hazard. Keeping the area around your unit clear helps deter pests and reduces the risk of infestation.

Maintain Aesthetics

A clear and well-maintained outdoor unit not only functions better but also looks better. Keeping the area around your unit clear can improve the overall appearance of your outdoor space and enhance your home’s curb appeal.

Keeping the area around your outdoor central air conditioning unit clear is essential for maintaining its efficiency, preventing damage, reducing energy consumption, deterring pests, and maintaining aesthetics. Regularly clearing debris from around your unit is a simple yet effective way to ensure that your air conditioning system continues to operate smoothly and efficiently.

 

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your central air conditioning unit is running efficiently and effectively, keeping your home cool and comfortable throughout the summer months in Buffalo, NY. And if your air conditioner needs some help, or you’re looking to purchase a new air conditioning unit, we can help! Contact us today for a free estimate.

Not sure what air conditioning system is right for your home? Learn more about different air conditioning systems and the pros and cons of each.