Central Air Conditioner Efficiency

Arlington Air Conditioning

Central air conditioner efficiency can be compares by studing the the SEER rating (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). Beginning in 2006, an air conditioner must have a SEER of at least 13 to be sold in the United States. Higher efficiency models have a SEER between 14 and 22.

Maintaining the Condenser

In most air conditioning systems, the condenser unit is located outside the house and is prone to accumulate dirt and debris from trees, lawn mowing, and airborne dust. The condenser has a fan that moves air across the condenser coil. You must clean the coil on the intake side, so, before you turn off the power to the air conditioner, check to see which direction the air moves across the coils. Here’s how to clean the condenser:

First, cut down any grass, weeds, or vines that have grown around condenser unit. There should be nothing to obstruct airflow.

Next you can clean condenser with commercial coil cleaner, available at refrigerator supply stores. Instructions for use are included. Use water to clean the the chemicals off the coil but do not use a water hose. You may damage the fins of you Arlington Texas air conditioner compressor.

Carefully Clean the Compressor

Use a soft brush to remove accumulated dirt from the coil. You may have to remove protective grille to reach them.Be careful because they are made of thin aluminum and are easily damaged. If fins are bent, straighten them. A fin comb is designed to slide into spaces between fins. Use it carefully to avoid damaging fins.

Make sure the concrete pad the condenser sits on is level. Set carpenters’ level front to back and side to side on top of unit. Use gravel or rocks under concrete to level it. Finally, make sure the condensate drain line is clear.