Taking action now will save money all year long

I know I keep telling you this stuff but seriously folks.


Clean air conditioner before spring

Spring is fast approaching and the days are already getting warmer, a sure sign that it is time to start thinking cool.

Cleaning your air conditioning unit is an easy task but one that many people overlook.

A clean air conditioner works more efficiently, costs less to operate and is less likely to require repair. Setting up a schedule for regular cleaning is a good maintenance practice, and one of the best times is now, before the season begins.

Tools, materials needed

1. Vacuum cleaner or shop vac

2. Garden hose

3. Screwdriver, pliers

4. HVAC cleaner (available in spray cans at hardware stores)

5. Shop cloth or soft bristle brush (such as an old toilet brush)

Instructions

Window air conditioner

1. Unplug the power cord from the outlet

2. Remove the filter cover on the inside of the house

3. Remove the filter and wash thoroughly with soap and water. Let it dry before putting it back in the unit.

4. Vacuum all of the dust and dirt from the unit that you can reach from the inside, and then go outside.

5. Spray the ventilation fins with the HVAC solvent and wipe or brush them clean. Straighten any bent fins with a pair of pliers.

6. Remove the outside cover, spraying the inside of the cover with HVAC solvent and rinsing it clean with water from the garden hose.

7. Vacuum the accumulated dirt and debris from the compressor coils. Look for evidence that the coils have been leaking or cracked. If you find damage to the coils, call an HVAC serviceman.

8. Spray the compressor unit with the HVAC solvent and let sit for a few minutes. Clean the coils with the cloth or brush. Vacuum once more to get any dust or dirt that was missed.

9. Replace the cover

Central air conditioner (outdoor compressor unit)

1. Turn off the power supply

2. With the screwdriver, remove the screws holding the fan assembly on top of the unit, and set it aside, using care not to cut or crimp the wires.

3. Remove all accumulated leaves, grass clippings and weeds that may have been pulled into the unit by the fan.

4. Spray the coils with HVAC solvent and let sit for a few minutes.

5. Spray the inside of the unit with the garden hose to clean thoroughly.

6. Clean the air ventilation fins on the outside of the unit with the solvent and the cloth or brush.

7. Straighten any bent fins with the pliers.

8. Replace the fan unit.