I’m living on my own for the first time and everyone has warned me about how horrible last summer was. I just read the article above warning people to get their air conditioners inspected before it really gets hot.
Now, because I have clinical anxiety, I feel the need to ask this dumb question. I’ve already been using my air conditioner every night for the past month and it’s working perfectly fine.
I’d assume that means I don’t have to get it inspected. Am I wrong, and do I still need to get it checked by a professional to make sure it doesn’t break down in August? Or is that warning for people who haven’t been using their air conditioners since spring started? (I too would have loved to save electricity, but when I slept with the window open I woke up with asthma)
by FrustratedInc3704
5 comments
Wow I don’t think I’ve ever gotten any of my air conditioning units inspected before.
Basic maintenance like cleaning the filter properly, vacuuming and cleaning out the coils, and checking all connections to make sure there isn’t any problems. You say your unit is working great, so it will get through the summer!
However, if you don’t feel comfortable doing this and you still feel anxious, get it inspected. No harm, no foul right? Only your peace of mind.
How old is your AC unit? Just an anecdote, but I have one that’s about 10 years old, survived a cross country move and it’s humming along just fine
I think the “inspection” is more about cleanliness, as dust and mold can accumulate within the pipes. There are Aircon cleaners available in the stores though, so if it’s not too dirty I would just use one for peace of mind, vacuum the filters etc.
You can get it cleaned.
1) there is a removable filter screen, take those out, and wash and let dry in the tub.
2) If this a cartridge style AC ( the kind mounted up high on the wall ), get a flashlight and see if there is gunk on the coils. If there is, you can have someone call out and do a proper cleaning. They will remove the case, put up a plastic sheet ‘funnel’ and garbage bag underneath, then spray with cleaner, and rinse. Mold can often form in there
3) Outside is the condensor, its likely on your porch. Ensure there is free airflow around it and the vanes/fins are clean. They can be very fragile, so just look. Again if they look dirty you can have someone clean them.
For moderate use I think a full cleaning by a professional every two years is fine. A lot of people wait much longer. You should clean the filter regularly by yourself and look for mould.