It’s no surprise that your HVAC requires period maintenance, like most machines. However, did you know that the more maintenance it receives, the more efficient it will be and the longer it will last? It’s true. By implementing a period maintenance plan, you can get the most out of your heating and cooling equipment.
In addition to hiring an HVAC specialist, you can also perform your routine checks each month, inspecting your system for things like:
That there are at least two feet of space between the indoor components of your HVAC system. Allows your indoor unit to be able to get as much air as possible.
Remove shrubs, branches, leaves, and other things from your outdoor unit that can potentially cause an exhaust fan block.
Your air filters: if they are not clean, replace them. Clean filters increase your HVAC unit’s efficiency.
Leaks in your HVAC unit’s refrigerant lines may not be apparent
2. Perform Seasonal Maintenance Checks
You should also have a licensed HVAC specialist to perform seasonal maintenance checks so they can:
Inspect its fan blades for proper operation.
Clean and replace its air filters if needed.
Clean its condenser and evaporator coils.
Check all of its heating and cooling components.
Inspect its electrical wiring.
Check your ductwork.
Check the refrigerant of your system.
Replace any worn parts.
Dust off any snow accumulated around your AC unit during winter.
3. Perform an Annual Inspection
Last but certainly not least, having your HVAC unit inspected annually will ensure it’s running safely and efficiently. Technicians will check your HVAC system and replace any carbon monoxide detectors if you have them. They will also make sure all of your HVAC unit’s components are properly lubricated and clean its condensation drain line.
HVAC technicians will also inspect your outdoor unit to make sure it’s been installed on level ground.
For more about HVAC repairs and installations, contact us!
If you need HVAC repairs or maintenance, contact the team from Melton’s Heating & Cooling today online or call (503) 378-7428.
Even during the hottest days of summer, your air conditioning unit can still freeze up, causing significant issues if it’s not repaired quickly by an AC unit repair team. As one of today’s leading air conditioning installation crews, we’ve seen it a million times. That’s why we wanted to give you some tips on how to avoid having your AC freeze when you need it most.
Dirty Air Filters
One of the most common problems when it comes to freezing AC units is a dirty and blocked air filter. The lack of airflow caused by the filter makes it impossible for cold air to escape your evaporator coils, causing an ice buildup. To fix this, stay on top of changing your air filters regularly.
Low Thermostat Setting
Having an extremely low thermostat setting can increase the likelihood of condensation and ice buildup. If you think this is the case with your air conditioner, running the fan will help melt that ice. However, you may consider cleaning your AC unit and keeping it at a slightly higher temperature for a more permanent solution.
Running Your AC Unit on Colder Nights or During Winter
Air conditioners are great because they help dehumidify the air. However, when you run it during the winter months, you risk having it ice over because of the lower temperatures. Often freezing occurs because there’s not enough warm air present to prevent its evaporator coils from freezing.
Consider investing in a humidifier if this is happening to you; nowadays, some air conditioners come complete with humidifiers. You can also avoid using your air conditioner on frigid days.
Low Refrigerant Levels
Your air conditioner relies on refrigerant to keep air cool, but lower refrigerant levels in your system cause the coils to have extremely low pressure and be more prone to freezing. If you suspect you have low refrigerant levels due to a leak, contact an HVAC technician immediately.
Contact us today for more about air conditioning installation and repairs!
To schedule an HVAC inspection or repair visit, contact us online today or call (503) 378-7482.
An air conditioner may seem magical – turning electricity into cold air – but it’s actually based on some relatively simple, clever engineering that’s been in use for over a century.
There are only four main components in an air conditioner when it comes down to it, and you’ll see them in any modern AC system, from large standalone units to small mini-splits. Whether you’re considering an air conditioning installation or already own a unit, understanding how it works is always good.
The Most Important Components in Your A/C Unit, And How They Function
In short, air conditioners function by selectively condensing and expanding a refrigerant liquid, which flows continuously through four main components.
1. The compressor
When the refrigerant enters the condenser coil, it’s in the form of warm gas, containing significant amounts of heat energy from the environment. As the name suggests, the compressor coil compresses the refrigerant – turning it into an extremely hot liquid. This process causes the refrigerant to absorb a lot of heat in the environment, capturing it within the AC system.
(This is also the part of the A/C unit which uses the most electricity.)
2. The condenser coil
Once the refrigerant is compressed into a hot liquid, it goes into the condenser coil. Air is blown constantly over the coil, causing the liquid to radiate heat. This heat is then blown into the outdoors, either directly in outdoor units, or via a vent. In this way, it ‘removes’ heat from your home.
3. The expansion valve
This valve is located between the condenser coil and the next stop, the evaporator. The valve’s purpose is to utilize a difference in atmospheric pressure to force the liquid refrigerant to vaporize. In turning into a gas, it loses most of its heat energy and becomes cool.
4. The evaporator
The cool gas passes through the evaporator coils, which are usually made of copper, causing it to become colder. Fans take the cold air produced and blow it into your home. Then the coolant passes back into the compressor and is ready for another cycle.
For Top-Quality Air Conditioning Installation & Repair, Call in Melton’s Heating!
For years, Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning has been the name to call in the Salem, OR, area whenever you’re having issues with your heating or air conditioning systems. From air conditioning installation to troubleshooting your heater in the winter to doing custom installs in new homes, we have the experience to build a great HVAC system for you. Contact us for an appointment.
