No one can deny that summers are scorching in Yuma and your air conditioning bills reflect that. These tips for HVAC cleaning will help you lower those bills because a clean air conditioner or heat pump runs much more efficiently. Depending on your time and skill level, summertime A/C cleaning could be a do-it-yourself project.
The Outdoor Condenser
If your condenser sits on the ground, inspect the condition of the coils inside it throughout the summer. They may be surrounded by thin metal fins that help dissipate the heat that comes from your home. If they’re dirty or bent, cooling efficiency drops. Bent fins can be straightened with a fin comb found at home improvement centers. However, if you find them hard to straighten, it’s better to leave that job to a pro.
To clean the coils and fins, use a light spray of the hose to knock the dust off. Home centers sell coil cleaner that’s useful for caked-on dust and grime, or grass clippings.
Throughout the summer, keep vegetation away from the condenser itself. Rake dead leaves away and never put anything on top of the condenser that would interfere with the airflow through it. Inspect the condenser after each monsoon storm and clean the coils and remove any debris that has blown around it.
The Air Handler
The most essential HVAC cleaning inside your home takes place in the air handler. A clean air filter keeps your system running dependably and efficiently. During the summer, check it monthly and if it’s dirty, change it.
You might be able to inspect your evaporator coil inside the air handler for dust and mold growth. When it’s dirty, your system won’t operate as efficiently. You may need to loosen a few screws or open a door to find it. If it’s overly dirty, you may want to call your trusted HVAC contractor.
It’s important to stay on top of HVAC cleaning throughout the long summer. To learn more, contact Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company, providing trusted HVAC services for Yuma homeowners.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Yuma, Arizona about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about HVAC cleaning and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 928-723-3183.
