Do it Yourself Air Conditioner Service

An air conditioner service or check up will cost you a lot. Air conditioners are expensive devices and it makes sense to want to avoid costly repairs and maintenance visits. You can avert such an expensive service by following some simple do-it-yourself air conditioner servicing tips.

Step 1 - Switch off the power

Switch off the main electricity current and locate the capacitor. You can easily locate the capacitor by following the directions provided by the manufacturer. 

Step 2 - Clean the condenser and oil the fan motor

Clean the condenser fan with a brush. The condenser will probably be covered with dust.

This is a must to avert any serious technical problems with the condenser. An
air conditioning servicing expert will charge you around $700 to repair the condenser. Remove the cover grille and detach the setscrew containing the fan. Take away the fan to gain access to the oil ports. Lubricate the fan motor with oil specified by the manufacturer.

Step 3 - Clean the condenser coils

Clean the condenser coils using a garden hose. Remove the coil guard before spraying the inside unit. This will prevent the accumulation of water-soaked debris inside the fins.

If the fins are bent, straighten them with a fin comb. You can also clean the fins with the fin comb.

Step 4 - Recycling of the refrigerant

Hire an expert to replace the refrigerant. Ensure that no harmful gases are leaked into the atmosphere during this process. Change the filter if it is damaged beyond repair.

Step 5 - Servicing of air-conditioner filters

An air-filter is one of the most important components of the air-conditioning unit. The filter cleans the air that we breathe. Failure to clean regularly will lead to the onset of fungi and bacteria. Switch off the main current before cleaning the filter. To clean the filter, remove the casing that encompasses the air-filter. Remove the filter and clean it with a cloth. You can then clean the filter with non-abrasive soap and water. Repeat this procedure once every two weeks to enhance the life of the air-filter. Ensure that the filter is dried off completely before reattaching it back to the unit.

Step 6 - Replacement of filter

Avoid using a foam filter that is worn out. Purchase a plastic electrostatic mesh filter
from a local supplier. This will cost you around $7. Cut the new filter with a pair of scissors.
Rinse it with clean water, and then allow it to dry off completely. You can then install the filter.

Step 7 - Servicing of ducts

Clean the air ducts regularly with a vacuum cleaner. This will help to remove obstacles like debris or dust particles that get sucked in the ducts.

Step 8 - Routine checks up

Check various parts such as fuses, breakers and the thermostat on a regular basis. Ensure that all the connections are in place.