A Guide on How to Maintain Air Conditioners

Whether to cool you down or to diminish heat from a surrounding source, air conditioners (AC) are complex systems that utilize several components to produce climate controlled air. To operate at peak performance, air conditioning units need regular maintenance and cleaning. Without routinely completing any inspections, even the highest quality of materials can degrade and malfunction over time. Commonly built with filters, coils, and fins, these components comprise most HVAC products and may require frequent inspection to prolong product use and keep the system in working function. Below, we will highlight a few of tips and key components you should check when inspecting your air conditioning unit for potential faults.

The Exterior

Containing all the necessary items to create a functionally operable unit, HVAC systems incorporate exterior shells to prevent the exposure of wind, rain, dust, and other weather conditions to internal components. When dust, dirt, and debris accumulate and become stuck in or around the unit, this can compromise the function of individual parts within the system.

Condenser

Serving the function of taking the heat absorbed by an air conditioner, the condenser helps to expel unwanted heat accumulated within the system. Though primarily functioning to mitigate hotter temperatures, an AC condenser can either serve to collect heat, or expel it based on current temperature patterns. You can typically find these parts on the outside of homes, buildings, or facing outward on a window air conditioning unit.

Coil Fins

Found as a component assisting the evaporator and condenser coils, these parts can easily be bent or soiled. As coil fins are thin and delicate, they require gentle handling to avoid further misshaping. Rough maneuvering of the component can result in permanent damage, further unwanted contortion, and breakage of the fins. If not in need of replacement, coil fins can be combed through the use of a fin comb to get bent fins back into their original positions.

Air Filter

Air filters are a primary resource for eliminating unwanted particles and various other substances within the air we breathe. Without proper maintenance or replacement in accordance with manufacturer recommendations, if too much of the accumulated matter goes uncleaned, the air filter can prevent ventilation. Not always addressed, this situation can not only reduce the quality and efficiency of your AC, but also dramatically increases the amount of energy needed to perform standard functions. By regularly checking these parts, you can save upwards of five to fifteen percent on your energy costs.

Air Conditioning Coils and Drains

As major components located within an AC unit, evaporator coils, condenser coils, and their accompanying drains help to control heat and moisture. Relying on an air filter to keep coils relatively free from accumulated particles, if trapped dirt and dust is not routinely cleaned, this can reduce a coil's ability to absorb and expel heat. To keep your coils functioning as they should, it is best to have them cleaned at least once a year to avoid accidental insulation of such parts.

No matter the quality of your air conditioner, all units require a certain amount of upkeep to remain functioning in proper condition. If you are looking to replace coils, old air filters, or simply replace certain parts with upgraded models, look no further than Buy Military Fasteners. We are your trusted source for various air conditioner filters, fin combs, condenser fans, motors, coils, and other related components. If you would like to request a quote for your comparisons, you can submit an RFQ form as provided on our website. Upon receipt, a dedicated account manager will quickly review and respond with a personalized solution to your needs in just 15 minutes or less, 24/7x365 .