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How to Tune Up Central and Window Air Conditioners

A well-maintained air conditioner will run more efficiently, saving you money on utility bills.

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How to Tune Up Central and Window Air Conditioners

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" In this day and age of expensive utility cost, well-maintained air conditioners will be more efficient and cost less to operate. Here are some tips. For safety sake, turn off the circuit breaker for the air conditioner before starting your spring tune up. Central air conditioning systems have units outside the house that work with components inside the house to cool the air. Start by giving your air conditioning unit a good cleaning. Clearing away any leaves, dirt, or debris surrounding the unit. Straighten the fins on the evaporator. Bent fins block the free flow of air. You can use the blade of a small rounded knife or you can use a special fin comb available from air conditioner supply houses. Next, wash the fins with a soft brush and soapy water to remove any dirt buildup between the fins. The goal is to have the air pass unrestricted through the unit. Rinse the fins with water. Don't use too much water pressure or you'll damage the cooling fins. Back inside the house, replace the air filter by removing the cover in the ventilation duct and pull out the old filter. This filter was replaced during the heating season less than six months ago. Compare it to a new filter. A dirty filter reduces the air conditioner's efficiency. Slide in a replacement filter, replace the cover plate, and screw it securely in place. Turn on the circuit breaker. And you're ready for another season. Window air conditioning units require approximately the same care. Wash the fins and the outside of the unit with soapy water and rinse lightly with water. While the outside of the unit is dry, remove the inside filter unit from the air conditioner. Wash the filter in soapy water, rinse in clear water and set it aside to dry. When the unit is dry, install the air conditioner in the window. Before you push the air conditioner in place, inspect the seal around the frame of the air conditioner. If the seal has become damaged by water or the sun's rays or it's missing, you can replace the original seal or add a seal with the insulation foam. Cut the foam to fit the edges and then, peel off the paper backing, and apply the new foam. The tight new seal will keep hot air out and cold air in saving you energy. Set the air conditioner to an energy saving setting, and you're ready for another season."

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