Service AC Now to Keep You Cool Later

All home central air-conditioning equipment requires some periodic inspection and maintenance to keep the equipment operating properly.

Unfortunately, most people do not think ahead to the dog days of summer. Be smart. Save yourself the aggravation of a balky air conditioner in the high heat of the summer by taking the time now to have your central cooling system serviced.

Keep in mind, however, that just because you hire someone to service your air, not everything will automatically be checked.

Here is a general list for you to present to your technician:

* Clean or replace filters.

* Lubricate motors and other moving parts.

* Check and recharge refrigerant to proper pressure if needed.

* Inspect and clean condensing and evaporator coils.

* Inspect and clean condensate drain lines.

* Check amperage draw on condenser or compressor and fan.

* Inspect relay contactors for worn or burnt points.

* Check and replace worn belts as needed.

* Check thermostat operation.

* Test airflow at all room registers. Low airflow may indicate a broken or damaged duct.

* Check temperature drop across evaporation coils for proper differential.

* Inspect “fan” and “start” capacitors.

* Check for proper “changeover” operation from heating to cooling.

* Inspect for loose or worn wiring.

* Remove dust and debris inside equipment.

Window air conditioners do not need the scope of work that central air systems do. If the unit is cooling properly, all that is needed is to inspect and clean the filter a few times during the season or when it appears dirty.

The filter is found behind the front plastic grill. The grill is removable by lifting a tab or removing a screw. (Some units allow the filter and frame to slide out without removing the grill).

Once out, rinse the filter in water to remove dust and reinstall it as it came out. Make sure that the cooling fins behind the filter appear in good condition. Straighten any bent ones with an old comb.

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Gary Abrams is a general contractor who has written about home improvement for The Times for 10 years. Comments and questions can be sent to P.O. Box 711, Thousand Oaks, CA 91319. Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.