Skip to content
Menu
DIY Projects for Home
DIY Projects for Home

Homeowners’ Guide To Optimizing Air Conditioner Efficiency

Posted on May 21, 2018

In the last post, we discussed some maintenance steps necessary for your AC unit to work as efficiently as possible. Studies show that regular maintenance of your commercial HVAC system will reduce unexpected breakdowns by about 70% to 75%, and having an understanding of the full range of maintenance procedures can help your air conditioner work as efficiently as possible throughout its entire lifespan. Here’s part two of our homeowner’s guide to optimizing air conditioner efficiency.

Clean The Coils

Near your air conditioner’s evaporator are the condenser coils, and both of these components of your air conditioner need to be cleaned every so often, as they accumulate dirt and debris over time. When too much debris gathers around the coils, it not only reduces air flow, but it insulates the coil and makes it harder for it to absorb heat. Look at the area surrounding the outdoor condenser coils; if it’s particularly dirty or dusty, or if there’s a lot of foliage in close proximity, chances are the coils will build up dirt faster than normal. It’s best to consult an HVAC professional to assess this problem and help you find and maintain a solution, but fortunately, the cleaning process tends to be relatively simple.

“Use a soft brush to dust off the coil, then spray the coil with commercially available no-rinse coil cleaner (available at home improvement stores). The spray will foam up and then drip into the drain pan. Clean out the drain pan with soap, hot water, and a little bleach. Then, pour a cup of 50% bleach/50% water down the drain. To keep the drain clear longer-term, place a commercially available drain pan tablet in the pan. This will inhibit future algae growth,” writes Jeff Wilson onĀ DIY Network.

Readjust Coil Fins

Finally, it’s important to mention that over time, it’s not uncommon for the aluminum fins located on the evaporator and condenser coils to bend and affect airflow. Straightening the coil fins isn’t too difficult, but unless you know exactly what you’re doing, it’s best to consult an HVAC professional.

Ultimately, understanding these essential maintenance tips is the key to maximizing the efficiency of your AC unit.

Leave a Reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Easy Home Projects

There is so much you can do with your old house. Let us guide you through a variety of inexpensive, easy home improvement projects with informational articles, home improvement product reviews, up and coming design trends, even build a home greenhouse!

Recent Posts

  • Master Bedroom Must Haves to Brighten Your Space
  • Keep Warm and Stay Safe With These House Projects
  • 10 Practical Solutions for Your Kitchen Problems
  • The Journey of Groundwater
  • How to Update a Traditional Living Room

Archives

January 2023
M T W T F S S
 1
2345678
9101112131415
16171819202122
23242526272829
3031  
« Dec    
©2023 DIY Projects for Home | WordPress Theme: EcoCoded