Top 7 Things You Should Never Do To Your AC Unit

July 24, 2023

image of the number 7 depicting diy air conditioner maintenance tasks

Your cooling system is needed more than ever during the summer. To make sure your system can do its job, maintain it as necessary. You may find DIY to be a successful method of finishing tasks around your home when you are on a budget. However, it is best to have a hands-off approach when you are inexperienced or untrained in certain areas. This rule applies when it comes to air conditioner systems or DIY air conditioner maintenance.

Most homeowners who perform DIY tasks on their air conditioning systems tend to take wild guesses and try them while unsure of what will happen when working on their air conditioner. They end up taking the wrong steps and negatively affecting the safety and well-being of their family.

HVAC experts state that you can avoid many costly problems when you are careful and diligent with your cooling system. However, as a homeowner, it is vital that you know what you can do and what your should leave to the pros. This article discusses the top 7 tasks that homeowners shouldn’t do to their air conditioning units.

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Seven Things You Should Not Do To Your Home Air Conditioning Unit

Contents

1 Seven Things You Should Not Do To Your Home Air Conditioning Unit
2 Call Columbus Energies For All Your HVAC Requirements

Here are a few considerations when conducting air conditioner preventative maintenance:

1. Never Forget To Check & Change The Air Filter

hvac air filter replacement for a central air conditioning system

One of the pros of an air conditioner is that it can filter dust and contaminants for better air quality inside your home. However, HVAC air filters cannot clean or change themselves. Neglecting to check and replace filters can result in a drop in AC efficiency and home comfort.

You should check the air filters once a month and change them at least once every two to three months. They need to be replaced more frequently if you own pets. Consult your HVAC professional if you do not know how to do air filter replacements. They can show you how to do it on their next air conditioner maintenance visit.

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2. Don’t Block The AC Condenser

The condenser needs to have a lot of room in its perimeter so it can pull in air. You shouldn’t put objects near this outdoor unit. Make sure that the area around it is clear so it has optimum airflow and cost-efficiency. You may be tempted to plant around the condenser, but it isn’t recommended to place plants too close. Make sure that bushes, flower plants, and other vegetation are several feet away from the condenser. Keep in mind that your condenser requires free-flowing air so that it can last longer.

3. You Should Never Leave Your Air Conditioner Off For Too Long

image of homeowner adjusting air conditioner thermostat

You may think it is a good idea to keep your air conditioner off for days at a time. However, air conditioners need to run. Make sure to turn on your air conditioner when the outdoor temperature isn’t as high. Leave it on for a few minutes every day or two so that mold and dust do not settle inside your air conditioner.

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4. Don’t Crank The Air Conditioning Unit

An air conditioner that’s constantly running may be because of one of two reasons. The first reason is that your area is experiencing extreme heat. The second reason is that the thermostat sensor is set too high. It isn’t surprising that there will be days when you need to run your air conditioner more, but try not to crank up the sensor too high while keeping your home comfortable. You can also take advantage of cooler days and nights to let your air conditioner rest for a while. The longer the air conditioner runs, the harder its parts will work and the more likely they are to break down sooner.

5. You Should Never Try To Power Wash An AC Unit

image of a power washer depicting never power wash your air conditioner

Spraying your air conditioner using a powerful hose or submerging it in water are not the ways you should clean your cooling unit. Never try to use a powerful approach to do so. Instead, brush out the leaves and wipe the debris inside the outdoor condenser. If more cleaning is required, have a certified and experienced HVAC technician do it. They have the tools and expertise needed to clean your air conditioner properly. Contact an HVAC expert to book a tune-up immediately.

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6. Don’t Neglect To Schedule Regular Air Conditioner Tune-ups

Having your air conditioner inspected and tuned up once a year can prevent small problems from escalating into big and costly ones. Neglecting to get your system inspected and maintained means you risk costlier repairs, reduced efficiency, and more breakdowns. Your reliable HVAC tech will check the system and do the needed maintenance so you don’t have to worry about your cooling unit breaking down when you need it the most. HVAC maintenance helps lower your energy bills and promotes a long system lifespan. Now is a good time to schedule an air conditioner tune-up if you haven’t had one in a while.

7. Do Not Perform DIY Air Conditioner Repairs

Untrained and inexperienced individuals won’t know the ins and outs of maintenance, searching for solutions, and conducting the necessary repairs on air conditioners. Keep in mind that small mistakes can eventually cost you more than hiring an HVAC technician to do it right at the onset. The best option is always to call in experienced and certified HVAC professionals when you need air conditioner services, like installation and maintenance. Make sure to do your homework and research an HVAC company’s reviews, references, licensing, and insurance coverage. The right HVAC technicians have the needed training and education to do quality work on one of your home’s most expensive systems.

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Conclusion

The summer months mean high temperatures that require a quality air conditioning system in your home. Remember that the filter should be kept clean and the system running and resting as needed. Don’t block the condenser. Clean it carefully, and schedule annual air conditioner tune-ups. The most important way you can take care of your air conditioner is by depending on your local certified HVAC professionals for their expert technical services and advice.

Call Columbus Energies when you require highly-reviewed, top-quality service with satisfaction guarantees at affordable rates. We are proud to be a local HVAC service provider you can trust for all your home cooling needs.

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Call Columbus Energies For All Your HVAC Requirements

Columbus Energies offer high-quality HVAC services in Southeastern Massachusetts and the Rhode Island region. Our professionally certified technicians specialize in exceptional HVAC services, including boiler replacements, mini-split installations, and air conditioner tune-ups. Each of our friendly techs has the knowledge, skills, and experience to ensure correct HVAC services at all times.

Our company offers the region’s most cost-effective HVAC service prices. Our maintenance services can increase energy efficiency and comfort while reducing home cooling costs. Our trained techs can provide the best recommendations for your HVAC repair or replacement system needs that are within your budget. All our work comes with a guarantee. Book a service appointment by calling Columbus Energies today. We offer free, in-home estimates.

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Contact us now by calling (508) 674-1492 to speak to one of our home comfort specialists! Click the link to view our HVAC service area.

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$HVAC units play a pivotal role in ensuring the comfort and safety of modern building environments. Yet, these indispensable systems are not immune to the challenges of power surges. Such surges, frequently resulting from events like lightning strikes, power outages, or fluctuations in the electrical grid, can unleash a rapid influx of electrical current. This sudden surge can inflict severe damage on vital components of the HVAC system, including the compressor, fan motor, and control board. The repercussions of such damage can range from expensive repairs to the necessity of replacing the entire HVAC unit. Given these risks, implementing surge protectors and adhering to electrical safety best practices to safeguard HVAC systems effectively is paramount. Is Your HVAC System Secured Against Power Surges? Pondering over protecting your HVAC system against power surges often indicates a need for proactive measures. 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The surge's excessive electrical energy overburdens and damages the sensitive electronic components within these devices, potentially leading to malfunctions or total failures. Differentiating Power Surge, Power Outage, and Brownout While power surges, power outages, and brownouts all stem from electrical power supply disturbances, they each describe distinct phenomena: Power Surge: This is a brief, intense increase in electrical voltage, due to lightning strikes, outages, or high-powered equipment. A power surge can potentially damage electronic devices and appliances hence surge protectors are essential to safeguard them from potential damage. Power Outage: This event happens when there's an interruption in the electrical power supply to a location, leading to a total loss of power. Numerous factors, such as severe weather conditions and electrical equipment failure, can trigger power outages or even planned maintenance activities. Brownout: Characterized by a reduction in voltage within the electrical power supply, a brownout manifests as dimming or flickering lights and reduced power to appliances. Causes range from high demand on the power grid to equipment malfunctions or issues within the electrical system of a specific building or area. Don't let power surges damage your HVAC system. Contact Columbus Energies now for professional surge protection solutions and ensure your system's longevity and performance! HVAC Components Vulnerable to Power Surges Here are several parts affected by power surges: HVAC Control Board Often referred to as the system's "brain," the HVAC control board is critical for communication with the thermostat. A power surge can damage this component, disrupting its function. Such damage impairs the HVAC system's ability to regulate temperature effectively, leading to insufficient heating or cooling. This can result in discomfort, especially during periods of extreme temperatures. HVAC Compressor Motor This crucial part of your HVAC system, recognizable as a box with wires protruding, plays a pivotal role in refrigerant compression. It converts low-pressure, cool refrigerant into a high-pressure, heated state. The motor, integral to the compressor, is prone to power surge damage. It consists of numerous wires that transform electrical energy into kinetic energy. A surge can cause these wires to overheat, potentially leading to combustion. Furthermore, a compromised motor affects the compressor's performance, hindering its ability to function efficiently. HVAC Capacitor This essential component, typically oval-shaped, serves as a storage unit for electrical charge, crucial for powering the electrical components in your HVAC system. Vulnerable to power surges, the capacitor can sustain damage when exposed to such events. This damage may result in operational difficulties for your HVAC system. HVAC Relay Switch This switch plays a crucial role in your HVAC system, acting to turn on or off components that require high-voltage power. A key feature of most relay switches is an electrical contactor surrounded by a coil. In the event of a voltage exceeding a specific threshold, as in a power surge, the coil is likely to burn out. This can lead to a broken circuit, causing the relay switch to malfunction. Keep your HVAC system safe from power surges with Columbus Energies' comprehensive surge protection services. Reach out to us today for peace of mind and reliable protection! Preventing Power Surge Damage to Your HVAC System Power surges pose a severe risk to HVAC systems, potentially leading to expensive repairs or replacements. Listed below are several tips to protect your HVAC system from power surge damage: Install Surge Protectors: Placing surge protectors on your HVAC unit and electrical panels offers crucial defense against unexpected power surges. These devices act as a barrier, safeguarding your system. Unplug Appliances During Storms: As a precaution, disconnect your HVAC system and other appliances during thunderstorms or severe weather. This simple action can prevent potential damage from lightning-induced surges. Utilize High-Quality Wiring: Implementing top-tier wiring and components is crucial in safeguarding your HVAC system against power surge damage. For optimal safety and efficiency, it's advisable to have these elements installed by a skilled electrician. Regular HVAC Maintenance: Consistently maintaining your HVAC system is a proactive way to prevent surge-related damage. Key practices include cleaning and replacing air filters, ensuring proper refrigerant levels, and inspecting electrical connections. Install a Whole-House Surge Protector: Consider a whole-house surge protector for comprehensive protection. Installed at your main electrical panel, it shields your entire home, HVAC system included, from power surges, thus securing all your appliances. Ensure your HVAC system's safety and longevity with Columbus Energies' top-notch surge protection services. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and protect your investment! HVAC Power Surge Damage & Warranty Limitations Warranties from HVAC manufacturers typically exclude coverage for power surge damage. Relying on homeowners' insurance can be complex, as proving surge-related damage is often difficult, especially when it accumulates over time. Consequently, homeowners might find themselves responsible for expensive HVAC repairs arising from incidents like lightning strikes, overloaded electrical circuits, or appliance-related issues. Conclusion HVAC systems represent a significant investment crucial for home comfort. Proactive prevention is vital to avoid incurring high costs from power surge damages. Investing in protective measures is a wise choice compared to facing the expense of repairs or replacements. Consult trusted HVAC professionals to ensure your system is well-protected and maintained. Contact Columbus Energies for All Your HVAC Needs Columbus Energies is a premier heating and cooling service provider in Southeastern Massachusetts and the Rhode Island region. Our professionally certified technicians are highly skilled in various HVAC services, including tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Rely on our expertise for accurate and efficient servicing of your system. As a highly sought-after service provider in the region, we are always prepared to meet your HVAC needs. We pride ourselves on offering the area's most affordable heating and cooling solutions. Columbus Energies is synonymous with quality service and cost-effectiveness. lightening storm and hvac surge protection$