Does it seem like your air-conditioner is not producing as much cold air as it should? If you have noticed a reduction in productivity, there might be a few things you can do before you call an HVAC professional. Admittedly, most severe air conditioning problems will need to be fixed by licensed professionals, but there are often a few simple things that homeowners can do on their own. This article explains two things you should check and fix yourself if it seems like your AC system is not as productive as it should be.
The Condenser Hose
The first thing you should check is the condenser hose. This hose connects the back of the AC unit (also called the condenser) to the wall of your house. This is usually a rubber hose, and it should be connected to fittings on the wall and on the back of the unit. Either end of the fitting could easily get knocked loose. This usually only happens if you live somewhere that is snowy during the winter. As the snow settles on your hose and freezes, it could put pressure on it, causing it to become loose. So, it is smart to double check your hose connections after the snow melts every winter.
Most people cover their actual condenser unit during the winter, but the covers usually don't go over the hose. If you have this same problem every year, you should consider figuring out a way to cover your house during the winter.
There's also a chance of your hose can actually get holes in it. This is rare, but it can happen if something falls and punctures the hose, or if you have a rodent chew through it. Instead of trying to tape your house, it is usually easier to just replace it completely. Condenser hoses are only going to cost a few bucks, and they are very easy to replace.
The Condenser Coils
While you're checking your condenser, you should also check the coils that line the outside of the main unit. If these coils are dirty, you should clean them because this could affect the productivity of your air conditioner. The coils are where the heat condenses as it is transferred out of your house, which enables your unit to cool down. If the coils are dirty, then your condenser unit is going to have to use more electricity when it is running. So, simply washing out the dirt that is blocking the coils can greatly increase the efficiency of your air conditioner.
For more information, contact your local heating maintenance services.
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