The best medicine for a dirty A/C is a professional tuneup. A professional has the expertise and tools to get deep inside the air conditioner, cleaning all of the tiny cracks and crevices as well as the components that lie deep inside the system. There are steps that Marietta homeowners can take, too, that will keep the A/C from getting too dirty.
Why Dirt Is Bad
A dirty A/C is an inefficient A/C.
- When dirt builds up on the condenser, it overworks to absorb and release heat, according to Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration NEWS. In addition, less heat transfer occurs because the dirt, in effect, acts as insulation. The system isn’t very efficient when it runs because the buildup creates a higher internal operating temperature.
- When the evaporator coil gets dirty, the operating pressure increases. The California Institute for Energy Efficiency, states that this results in lower airflow and poor A/C performance. It ultimately shortens the life span considerably. In fact, dirt interferes so significantly with normal coil operations that it can lead to at least a 5 percent decrease in cooling capacity and efficiency.
A Professional Tuneup
Professional maintenance service typically includes tasks designed to rid air conditioners of damaging dirt and debris that has gotten into the recesses of the systems. The HVAC professional will perform several tasks:
- Cleaning the filters or replacing them
- Treating the coil and cleaning it
- Inspecting the coils
- Flushing the condensate drain as appropriate
- Testing the compressor
- Cleaning the condenser
- Checking motors, refrigerant levels and capacitors
When you pay for a professional tuneup, however, you get more than just dirt removal. Your service professional will also check the system for evidence of wear and tear. The pro will replace components that are showing damage and will eventually wear out. In addition, the technician will test the system’s operational efficiency after cleaning to ensure that it operates as efficiently as possible and meets manufacturer’s specifications as much as it possibly can. Other cooling-related components are also typically included in the tuneup, such as ductwork, dehumidifiers and indoor air quality systems.
DIY Steps
While professional tuneups are a must for keeping your air conditioner clean, homeowners are not off the hook from participating. You can avoid a dirty A/C by completing these steps:
- Every month or so, check the A/C filter. If it looks dirty, replace it with a new one. When there’s enough filter surface space in which to trap dirt, it won’t be able to bypass the filter and get inside the A/C. A clean filter, in fact, is your best line of defense against dirt buildup.
- Check the outdoor unit periodically. Keep landscaping, old leaves and dirt away from the unit. They could interfere with the condenser and compressor if they gain access to the A/C.
With some vigilance, a few reminders and an annual service appointment, you can avoid a dirty A/C, lower your air-conditioning costs and ensure that your system is reliable. To schedule a tuneup or just to ask a question about your cooling system, contact Reliable Heating & Air. We serve greater Atlanta with indoor air quality, plumbing and home performance needs. Call us to ask about Atlanta’s Most Complete tuneup special or our Peace of Mind Plan, designed to address HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems.
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