Keep Your Air Conditioning System Healthy and Efficient

There are several aspects of air conditioning maintenance that homeowners in the Tampa Bay area shouldn’t neglect.   Properly maintained A/C units operate more efficiently for longer.  They require fewer repairs and save you money on your energy bills each year.

Here at Simpson Air, we believe that the best way to ensure that your A/C stays healthy and efficient is get preventative maintenance done on a regular basis.  When you have a qualified technician check out your air conditioning system, you gain the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your system components are functioning properly, and won’t let you down when you need them.

An air conditioner’s filters, coils, and fins require regular maintenance for the unit to function effectively and efficiently for many years.  Neglecting necessary maintenance practically guarantees a steady decline in air conditioning performance and a steady increase in energy use.

Filters- The most important maintenance task that will ensure the efficiency of your air conditioner is to routinely replace or clean its filters.  Clogged, dirty filters block normal air flow and reduce a system’s efficiency significantly.  Keeping the filter clean can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5%–15%.

Coils- The air conditioner’s evaporator coil and condenser coil collect dirt over their months and years of service.  A clean filter prevents the evaporator coil from soiling quickly.  In time, however, the evaporator coil will still collect dirt. This dirt reduces air flow and insulates the coil, reducing its ability to absorb heat.  To avoid this problem, have your evaporator coil checked and cleaned every year as necessary.

Also, minimize dirt and debris near the condenser unit.  Your dryer vents, falling leaves, and lawn mower are all potential sources of dirt and debris.  Cleaning the area around the coil, removing any debris, and trimming foliage back at least 2 feet allow for adequate air flow around the condenser.

Coil fins- The aluminum fins on evaporator and condenser coils are easily bent and can block air flow through the coil.  Your tech can use a tool called a “fin comb” that will comb these fins back into nearly original condition.

Condensate drains- Clogged drain channels prevent a unit from reducing humidity, and the resulting excess moisture may discolor walls or carpet and encourage mold growth.

Regular maintenance keeps your air conditioning system operating at peak efficiency, which means that you stay cool and comfortable even in hot, humid weather.  So be sure to put it on your to-do list!  You’ll benefit in the long term, through reduced energy bills, fewer system repairs and improved comfort.