Home Tips Issue #1- Air Conditioning

Last week, we ran a poll asking if you'd like to receive a separate email with 1-2 home maintenance tips each week. The response was unanimous: 100% of you said YES!

Welcome to the first issue of Home Tips! In this newsletter, we’ll provide you with a simple, DIY home maintenance tip each week. We’ll break down what you need, how to do it, and explain why it’s important. We will also include a section on understanding the benefits and potential costs of not doing it which may surprise you.

Air Conditioner Maintenance

The summer heat has arrived. This week, make sure your HVAC system is working efficiently to keep your home cool and comfortable.

The Consequences of Neglecting AC Maintenance

The problem with lack of AC maintenance range from minor like reduced efficiency and unusual odors to overheating and worst of all, complete system FAILURE!

How To

AC maintenance that you can do is quite simple and easy. Note: The cover must be off for summer use already.

• Check the inside (at the furnace) and outside (condenser) for damage or leaks.

• Clear away any leaves, branches or garbage from around the outside condenser unit. Trim grass or bushes near the unit as necessary.

• Use a garden hose to gently wash the fins of the outdoor condenser coil. Be careful not to bend the fins.

• Check the insulation on the outside AC hose for damage, wear or deterioration. Replace as necessary.

• Flush the indoor condensate drain line with a mixture of water and vinegar to clear any buildup and ensure proper drainage. The condensate drain line is typically a PVC pipe near the indoor unit.

• Check the air filter and clean or replace if it’s dirty.

• After completing all the above tasks test the system using the thermostat. Make sure it starts up properly and cools your home effectively.

Tips & Tricks

Here are some common tips and tricks

• Never run your AC unit with the cover on.

• Turn the breaker off for winter.

• Cover for winter.

• Install a programable thermostat if you don’t already have one.

• Keep an eye on your energy bills. A sudden increase in energy usage could indicate an issue with your air conditioner that needs attention.

When to Call a Pro

You should call a professional about your home air conditioner in the following situations:

1. No Cool Air:

   • If your air conditioner is running but not blowing cool air, or if the airflow is weak, it may indicate a problem that requires professional attention.

2. Strange Noises:

   • Unusual noises such as grinding, squealing, or banging coming from your air conditioner could indicate mechanical issues or loose parts that need to be repaired.

3. Odd Smells:

   • If you notice musty, burning, or other unusual odors coming from your air conditioner, it could be a sign of mold, electrical issues, or other problems that need to be addressed.

4. Frequent Cycling:

   • If your air conditioner is frequently turning on and off (short cycling), it could indicate an issue with the thermostat, refrigerant levels, or other components.

5. Rising Energy Bills:

   • A sudden increase in your energy bills without a corresponding increase in usage could indicate that your air conditioner is running inefficiently and needs professional maintenance or repair.

6. Refrigerant Leaks:

   • If you suspect a refrigerant leak (e.g., you notice hissing sounds or decreased cooling efficiency), it’s crucial to call a professional to fix the leak and recharge the refrigerant.

We hope you find these Home Tips Useful

Thank you

Ron Henderson
The Handy Homeowner