{"id":3524,"date":"2018-05-29T07:27:48","date_gmt":"2018-05-29T11:27:48","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/dankrell.com\/blog\/?p=3524"},"modified":"2019-05-05T08:13:10","modified_gmt":"2019-05-05T12:13:10","slug":"air-conditioning-maintenance","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dankrell.com\/blog\/2018\/05\/29\/air-conditioning-maintenance\/","title":{"rendered":"Air conditioning maintenance"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"air<\/a>
Home Cooling (infographic from energy.gov)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Did you know that the first commercial application of air conditioning was in 1902?\u00a0 And yet, residential central A\/C didn\u2019t come into its own until the 1960\u2019s.\u00a0 According to the US Department of Energy’s History<\/a> of Air Conditioning<\/em>, A\/C use skyrocketed in the 1970\u2019s.\u00a0 Since then, systems have become more efficient, such that new air conditioners use fifty percent less energy than units from the 1990\u2019s.\u00a0 Additionally, new technologies are making A\/C units increasingly environmentally friendly.\u00a0 New developments in air conditioning include non-vapor compression technology, which will be fifty percent more efficient and doesn\u2019t use Hydrofluorocarbons (energy.gov).<\/p>\n

Summer<\/a> is around the corner.\u00a0 But I would venture to say that many of you already have your air conditioning running.\u00a0 We take for granted that our home\u2019s air conditioning runs without fail.\u00a0 But proactive care of your A\/C unit will keep it running efficiently while you stay cool through the hottest summer days.\u00a0 Here are some air conditioning maintenance tips<\/a> from the US Department of Energy (energy.gov):<\/p>\n

Regular maintenance<\/a> of your home\u2019s air conditioning system will ensure air flow.\u00a0 Regularly changing air filters can keep your system clean and keep the air flowing.\u00a0 A clean filter can reduce energy consumption by five to fifteen percent.\u00a0 Filter change requirements can vary from home to home, due to home conditions.<\/p>\n

Over time, the A\/C unit\u2019s coils can become dirty, which will reduce its efficiency.\u00a0 Dirt on the coils can reduce airflow and prevent it from absorbing heat.\u00a0 The outside condenser coils will likely become dirty from being exposed to the elements.\u00a0 It\u2019s recommended that the area around the outdoor unit be clear of debris, leaves, and have about two feet of clearance for ideal airflow.\u00a0 Make sure that the air conditioner condenser drains are not blocked.\u00a0 A clogged drain can create excess humidity, which can create conditions for mold growth in basements and utility closets.<\/p>\n

Window<\/a> A\/C units require maintenance too.\u00a0 You should inspect the seal between the unit and the window to ensure there are no air leaks.\u00a0 Window A\/C units should be covered during the winter to prevent dirt and debris from penetrating the unit.<\/p>\n

Some maintenance requires a qualified HVAC technician.\u00a0 If you hire a HVAC tech to clean and service your air conditioning, make sure they have a current HVAC license<\/a>.\u00a0 Hiring a professional doesn\u2019t have to be expensive, as many HVAC companies run maintenance specials this time of year.\u00a0 Besides checking the refrigerant in the system, the tech will run a number of diagnostics as well as clean the system if needed.\u00a0 They will also make necessary repairs, such as sealing leaks.<\/p>\n

Air conditioning maintenance assistance programs<\/h2>\n

If you\u2019re on a modest income and cannot afford to service or upgrade your air conditioning, you may qualify for Montgomery County\u2019s Homeowner Energy Efficiency Program<\/strong><\/a>.\u00a0 The program is in partnership with Habitat for Humanity Metro Maryland, Inc to assess applicants\u2019 eligibility and identify their needs.\u00a0 According to a Tuesday county press release, \u201chomeowners benefitting from the program will receive free energy-efficiency upgrades to their home which may include attic insulation, upgraded furnace and air conditioning units<\/strong>, water heater replacement, LED light bulbs, a solar-powered attic fan, a programmable thermostat and new appliances<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n

The program is open to all Montgomery County homeowners.\u00a0 Eligibility requirements include; owning and occupying the Montgomery County home for which they are requesting services; they must be a PEPCO customer; and meet income criteria.\u00a0 For more information see the program website (habitatmm.org\/montgomery-county-energy-efficiency-program<\/a>).<\/p>\n

By Dan Krell
\nCopyright \u00a9 2018.<\/p>\n

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\"Protected<\/a>Disclaimer<\/a>. This article is not intended to provide nor should it be relied upon for legal and financial advice. Readers should not rely solely on the information contained herein, as it does not purport to be comprehensive or render specific advice. Readers should consult with an attorney regarding local real estate laws and customs as they vary by state and jurisdiction. Using this article without permission is a violation of copyright laws.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Did you know that the first commercial application of air conditioning was in 1902?\u00a0 And yet, residential central A\/C didn\u2019t come into its own until the 1960\u2019s.\u00a0 According to the US Department of Energy’s History of Air Conditioning, A\/C use skyrocketed in the 1970\u2019s.\u00a0 Since then, systems have become more efficient, such that new air … <\/p>\n

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