Air Filters & Air Conditioning Service
Air Filters | Air Conditioning Service
Neglecting maintenance on the home’s air conditioning is a guarantee of reduced performance, efficiency and the increased need for repair. air conditioning service provided annually will prevent these issues, while extending the life of the system. air filters may seem an innocuous part of the AC, but in actuality, they are a vital component in performance and lifespan.
Air Conditioner Coils
The central air conditioner has two coils, the evaporator coil and the condenser coil. Over time, soil collects on the coils, reducing the airflow and diminishing the coils ability to absorb heat. The outdoor condenser coil can be rinsed with a garden hose, but will require periodic professional cleaning by an HVAC technician. Professional cleaning is typically with the use of an acid that is hazardous for homeowners to use. Contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning for air conditioning service for professional cleaning and service. Never use a pressure washer on the condenser as this will bend the fins and result in problems.
You should minimize dirt and debris near the outdoor condenser unit. Falling leaves and the lawn mower are potential sources of dirt and debris. The area surrounding the outdoor condenser should be kept clean, removing any debris, and trimming foliage back at least 2 feet from the condenser allow for adequate airflow.
The indoor coil is the evaporator coil. The air filter provides its first line of defense. Air filter quality varies, and the blue fiberglass filter is the minimum of the standards. It will prevent the largest debris from entering the system, but will allow all other dust and particulates to pass through the filter and directly into the evaporator coil. As the coil is soiled, its performance is reduced, and the electric bill increased. Left untreated the problems will only multiply, resulting in the need for an HVAC technician to provide air conditioning service.
Air Conditioner Filters
The importance of routinely changing the air filter simply can’t be stressed enough. The most important maintenance task a homeowner can provide that will ensure the efficiency of the air conditioner is to routinely replace or clean its air filters. Clogged, dirty filters block normal airflow and reduce a system’s efficiency significantly. Inadequate air flow places the entire system under a strain and can result in damage to the system, including overheating of the compressor. Compressor failure is a frequent reason for replacement of the HVAC system, due to its high cost. It is far less costly to provide air conditioning service annually, than to replace a compressor or the entire system.
When normal airflow is obstructed, the air that bypasses the filter will carry dirt directly into the evaporator coil impairing the coil ability to absorb heat. Replacing a dirty, clogged filter can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by as much as 15%.
Some filters are reusable, while others must be replaced. Filters are available in a variety of types and efficiencies. Clean or replace your air conditioning system’s filter or filters every month during the cooling season, unless otherwise directed by the manufacturer.
In addition, ensure to use the type of filter the manufacturer recommends. If your system doesn’t recommend a HEPA filter, check with your HVAC technician before using. Not all systems are designed to use HEPA filters, and can suffer premature wear and tear on the system if used.
Furthermore, filters may need changing more often if the air conditioner is in constant use, is subjected to dusty conditions (such as during a remodel), or if you have pets in the home.
Coil Fins
The aluminum fins on evaporator and condenser coils are easily bent, and when this occurs, airflow through the coil is blocked. The outdoor coil is especially vulnerable to damage from pets, children, storms and lawn mowers. Never cut the grass with the mower’s discharge chute aimed toward the condenser. This will minimize soil, and the potential for damage from a thrown rock. When the condenser appears soiled, or a large area of the fins is bent, contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning for air conditioning service.
Condensate Drains
The evaporator pan is located underneath the indoor evaporator coil and contains an evaporator drain. A clogged evaporator drain can cause problems related to indoor humidity, and the potential for the shallow pan to overflow. Don’t risk damage to your home. Ensure maintenance and cleaning of the drain with annual air conditioning service.
Our certified HVAC technicians provide exceptional air conditioning service and are dedicated to exceeding your expectations and ensuring your satisfaction. Feel free to contact us if you have questions regarding air filters or annual maintenance. Our experienced professionals offer heating and air conditioning repair, service, and installation. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas.
