Air Conditioner Efficiency Tips
Air Conditioning units should be serviced by licensed professionals. But there are some simple things a homeowner can do to substantially improve efficiency and increase longevity. NOTE: Use caution when working around A/C and heating units as well as live electricity. Electricity to both the A/C and the furnace can be turned of at the main circuit breaker. Power to the A/C unit can also be disconnected at the breaker next to the unit. Power to the furnace and blower can be disconnected at the switch mounted next to the unit.
Troubleshooting Basics
Keep a written record of the steps you performed, this can go a long way in preventing redundant steps when you call for outside help.
If The Air Conditioning Does Not Run or Does Not Run Consistently
A) There may be problem with power to the A/C unit, the blower or the thermostat. Check the electrical service panel to see if all circuits are on. Check the circuit breaker next to the unit. Check to see if the thermostat battery needs to be replaced.
B) Short Cycling occurs when the A/C unit is oversized for the space it is trying to cool. It may seem like quickly cooling a space is good, but frequent off and on cycles add wear and decrease the life of the A/C unit.
If The A/C Runs But There Isn’t Much Cold Air
A) Change filter. B) Check Freon function (see below).
How do I know if there is enough Freon?
Freon circulates in this closed system ,constantly condensing and evaporating through different stages of cooling. If a leak develops in the system, Freon can escape and reduce efficiency or stop cooling all together. Only a certified professional can check the amount of Freon present in your system, but there is an indicator on the unit that will show that Freon is present. The indicator, called the sight glass, looks like a plastic bubble and is located on the supply line running toward the condenser. If the system is running properly, bubbles in the sight glass will be moving. If no bubbles are present it could be an indication of a leak and reduced Freon.
Efficiency
Studies show a 23% refrigerant loss (Freon) can result in 52% efficiency loss. Conversely properly charged and maintained systems save an average of 18.4%, or $30 per month.
Routine Maintenance Tips
It is always a good idea to disconnect power at the main electrical panel prior to any maintenance.
● Keep the outside condenser free from debris year round. A/C covers are available at most home improvement stores and are an inexpensive way to keep units clean and clear over winter months. Any build up of leaves or debris should be cleared in the spring and fall. A dirty A/C unit or one with clogged fins can be cleaned with a garden hose and strong spray nozzle. Work your way down the unit until all visible debris is cleared and the water runs clear.
● Check to make sure the A/C unit is level and has not shifted and become unbalanced over time. An unbalanced unit will not run efficiently and will wear out faster than a properly leveled unit. A unit can be leveled by propping up the base with concrete, gravel or other stable material.
● Bent fins are a major cause of inefficiency. A regular comb can be used to straighten out condenser fins.
● The insulated lines running from your outside condenser carry cold Freon to cool your home. If the insulation is missing or worn, the Freon can lose its cooling effect. Lines can be easily re-insulated with ordinary foam pipe insulation available at any hardware store.
