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Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips

Stephen Rampur
For efficient working of an air conditioner, you definitely need to take proper care of it. Here are some tips on its proper maintenance.
During the summers, as the temperatures soar, the use of air conditioners increases accordingly. People use them optimally when needed, but fail to take proper care and maintenance of an AC when it is not needed, read winters and off season.
If you want your air conditioner to function efficiently and for a longer duration, you need maintain it. Maintenance of an AC is an easy task to perform, and also an important one. It will not only increase the life of the AC, but will also keep a tab on your energy consumption.
Always read the owner's manual carefully before you start operating the AC. The product manual contains necessary information about the important parts and components of the air conditioner. After you are well informed about all the components, maintenance is just the next step ahead.

Maintenance and Usage

Tips Air Filter Replacement and Thermostat's Temperature

● Make it a point to replace the air filter according to the recommendations given by the manufacturer in the product manual. The more inexpensive the filter, the more frequently you'll need to replace it. There are some filters which are supposed to be cleaned once in a month or a quarter.
● Maintain the thermostat's level at a constant temperature, irrespective of you being at home or not. If the temperature is kept constant, the air conditioner will have to work less to provide cooling.
● There is a common misconception among some people that the thermostat's temperature should be increased when leaving the house. If this is done, the AC will have to consume more power to cool the room.

Cooling Coils and Air Vent

● Ensure that the cooling coils are cleaned and checked once in a year. They cay be cleaned by spraying water on them using a hose.
● Ensure that the device is switched off while doing so. Make sure some kind of absorbent protection is present under the return air vent. If air conditioners are not in a well-kept state, water may come out of these air vents.

Compressor

● The compressor also needs to be kept clean and bereft of dust and dirt. You may utilize a water hose for getting rid of the dust. By doing so, you enable the airflow to work more expeditiously across the cooling fins on the component.
● When the AC is not needed, as in winter, simply cover the compressor with a cloth, which will prevent dust from accumulating. You will also have to examine the hose connections for leaks, and ensure that the condensate tube is able to drain freely.
● Check if the air conditioner panels are screwed tightly. If they are not, simply fasten the screws. In case of window ACs, it's recommended that you remove them when not in use.
● Window ACs should be installed in windows that are least exposed to direct sunlight, since ACs installed in full shade consume less energy to function effectively. You may use plants or shrubs to shade the AC, but ensure that they do not block the airflow.
Along with all these maintenance tips, you should also get the air conditioner checked and examined by a professional technician periodically. Maintaining it well will simply result in less repair costs and reasonable energy bills.