The cooling months are here – is your air conditioning system ready? Maintenance for your air conditioner will ensure optimal home comfort, maximum energy efficiency, and help prevent unnecessary mishaps such as water damage.
Reason for concern
One common problem with air conditioning systems is clogged drainage, which may cause water damage to your home. Air conditioners produce a lot of water by normal condensation. This occurs at the evaporator coil, which is typically located inside your home in a closet, utility room or basement. With your cooling equipment tucked away in an out-of-sight location, you may not realize when the drainage system is clogged until you see water seeping from the ceiling or walls. By that time, a lot of damage may have already occurred in your home’s structure, including the potential for black mold growth. Drainage problems are often caused by the following:
- Mineral deposits and algae growth in the lines.
- Low refrigerant levels.
- Damaged contacts at the condenser.
- Dirty coils and air filters, which hinder airflow.
All of these issues mean your system must work much harder, which produces more condensation and increases the likelihood of ice formation.
Professional preventive maintenance
With professional preventive maintenance to prevent these issues, you’re protecting your home from water damage, while at the same time providing your air conditioner with the service that it needs to function at maximum efficiency. A heating and cooling pro will thoroughly check the following, and more:
- Visually inspect the system for blockages, refrigerant leaks and general upkeep.
- Optimize airflow with a thorough cleaning, paying particular attention to evaporator coils, blower and air filter.
- Inspect, clean and flush out condensate drain and pan.
- Check all electrical wiring and components (including relays, safety controls and contactors) for signs of wear, and confirm snug connections.
- Lubricate motor bearings.
- Check insulation on refrigerant lines.
- Measure air velocity at the blowers.
To increase your air conditioning efficiency, and help protect against costly repairs and mishaps, contact Marsh Heating & Air Conditioning today. We’ve provided service and installation to homeowners and businesses in the Twin Cities Metro area for over 35 years.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about water damage due to your air conditioner and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning services Minnesota’s Twin Cities. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!