Preparing Your Central Air Conditioning System For The Switch Of The Seasons

Posted on: 16 September 2015

When it is time to put away air conditioning in exchange for heating, there are a few maintenance steps you will want to do your air conditioner to ensure it works properly when you need to use it again the following season. Routine maintenance to your central air conditioning system can be done on your own with a few simple tools. Here are some of the steps you should take at the end of the season to prepare your air conditioning system for storage.

Condenser

When you prepare your air conditioning system for storage, you will first want to make sure the condenser is completely cleaned out so there is no debris stored within during winter months. This debris could become caked inside the condenser and obstruct the flow of air when cooling is needed. Use a shop vacuum with a soft-brush attachment to remove all debris from your condenser.

Gently vacuum the fins and around the blades of the fan. Wipe down the blades of the fan using a clean piece of cloth dipped in a mild detergent and water mixture. Allow to dry completely before covering the condenser with a heavy-duty cover. This will help protect the condenser from harsh weather as you store it until the following warm season.

Evaporator

The evaporator is located above or within the top portion of your furnace. This should also be cleaned using a shop vacuum. Open the door leading to the evaporator and vacuum the enclosed fins completely.

Remove the tube that leads from the evaporator to the water pump and wash it out in a sink full of warm, soapy water to remove any algae that may be trapped inside. Rinse the soapy mixture from the tube and allow it to dry completely before placing it back into place.

Dump out any condensation inside the evaporation tray located underneath the evaporator. To kill any fungus that may be in the tray, pour a tablespoon or two of bleach inside the tray and allow it to sit for several minutes before dumping it out. Wipe down the tray with a clean piece of cloth before restoring underneath the evaporator. 

It is best to remove the air filter at this time and replace it with a brand new one so when you turn your air conditioner on during the next season, you will not be blowing around dust particles that were present on the old filter. Simply slide out the old filter and slide a new one in its place. Contact a local HVAC firm, like River City Heating & Cooling, if you need help.

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