Webster
member
Posts: 27
Reg: 03-14-10
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09-05-12 01:20 PM - Post#153945
Hello Allen Residents -
While it's late in the season, we are still experiencing near record high ambient temperatures and the need for top performance from our air conditioning systems is at a maximum.
In order to keep your system running at optimum efficiency there are a couple of things that you can do as a homeowner:
1) Be sure to check/change your air filters - I recommend to not let them go for more than 4 weeks (or 1 month). For those of you with filter racks located in the attic - usually at the inlet side of your furnace or air handler - be sure that the door enclosure for the filter rack is closed and sealed. Hot attic air entering the air stream at this point can kill efficiency and can cause your system to run longer, struggle to keep you comfortable, and increase your electrical consumption.
2) For many of us, having the outdoor condensing coil(s) sprayed out one time per summer season is not enough. Outdoor units with louvered panels often require a second cleaning later in the season. Or, also, those near cottonwood trees or other environmental conditions that may cause the coil to become restricted with debris at an increased rate. Failure to do this can also cause the system to struggle to keep you cool and increase utility costs, and in some cases may actually damage the equipment.
To clean the outdoor coil(s) yourself, simply disconnect the electrical supply from the outdoor unit either at your main electrical panel or at the service disconnect usually located on the wall near the outdoor unit. Use your garden hose to spray a concentrated stream directly into the coil surface. If you have louvered panels covering the coil surface you can either remove them or simply aim the water stream at an upward angle to clean the coil surface. Evenly and uniformly spray out the entire coil surface. It is not unusual to see a noticeable amount of dirt, grass clippings, etc. being washed out. Re-apply power and voila - your coil surface will exhaust heat energy at a maximum rate.
These are a couple of simple tips that homeowners can do themselves. Of course, there are many other important operational aspects and components to your heating and cooling system and a thorough checkout and tune-up should be performed by a competent professional.
If you have any questions or are in need of service, please feel free to contact us:
David Porter
Webster Mechanical
[email protected]
972-978-3136
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denisew
Community Expert
Posts: 9243
Loc: Allen, TX
Reg: 02-18-02
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09-05-12 02:42 PM - Post#153952
In response to Webster
David - Speaking of air filters, what is your opinion on the filters that are the "lifetime" filters that are simply washed out when dirty and put back or are the Filtrete filters better?
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Webster
member
Posts: 27
Reg: 03-14-10
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09-05-12 03:37 PM - Post#153953
In response to denisew
Hi Denise -
The re-useable/washable type of air filter is probably the worst choice of filtration available, in my opinion.
The Filtrete brand pleated disposable is an excellent choice. In fact, there are a number of pleated disposable filters available ranging from about $4-12 that are quite acceptable.
Beyond that there are a number of other more advanced filtration options that are available.
Hope this helps.
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denisew
Community Expert
Posts: 9243
Loc: Allen, TX
Reg: 02-18-02
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09-06-12 10:05 AM - Post#153997
In response to Webster
Great! That is what I was wanting to find out. Is it true that the higher performance Filtrete filters make the AC units run harder because it takes more to force the air through these thicker filters?
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Webster
member
Posts: 27
Reg: 03-14-10
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09-06-12 02:37 PM - Post#154019
In response to denisew
The higher "MPR" rated 3M/Filtrete filters are somewhat restrictive but as long as your return duct is sized properly and the filter maintenance schedule is followed closely (this part is important) then you shouldn't be causing any hindrance to system performance.
To be safe - try using either the 3M/Filtrete rated at 300-600 MPR or other pleated disposables with a MERV rating of approx 4-6.
Changing them regularly is the key. Because they do a great job of picking up dirt in the air, they become dirty more quickly than filters that are less effective. The dirtier they become, the faster they get clogged.
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denisew
Community Expert
Posts: 9243
Loc: Allen, TX
Reg: 02-18-02
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09-06-12 03:59 PM - Post#154033
In response to Webster
Thank you for that information! We were trying to be "green" by using the washable/lifetime filters, but definitely need to switch back to the Filtrete and keep them changed on a regular basis. And, with three dogs, two cats and three teens, those filters are definitely catching a lot of dust! 
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Webster
member
Posts: 27
Reg: 03-14-10
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05-23-13 01:46 PM - Post#161159
In response to denisew
It's that time of year again, folks.
If you are in need of service or just want to get a spring system-check on your air conditioning system, give us a call and we'll get you into our schedule at your convenience.
Be sure that the outdoor condensing-unit portion of your air conditioner is clean and free of debris and dirt, and that as we get above 90F and stay there, that your indoor air filter is changed every 4 weeks. These simple maintenance related tips can help keep your from an otherwise unnecessary and always inconvenient breakdown.
Questions or concerns about your system - feel free to call and ask a question.
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