How To Maintain Your Central AC This Summer

June 16, 2023 | 11:15 AM

As the temperature starts rising in summer, your central air conditioning system becomes an essential component of your home's comfort. In simpler words, it is difficult to imagine our summer without ACs. That is why it is crucial for you to ensure that your central AC performs at its best and keeps you cool throughout the season. This is where regular maintenance comes into role. Here, we will guide you through the proper maintenance steps for your central air conditioner, helping you maximize its efficiency and longevity.

Understanding the Functioning of Central Air Conditioners

Before diving into maintenance tips, let's first discuss how central air conditioners work. VRV central AC units consist of three main components:

• Outdoor condenser unit
• Indoor evaporator coil
• Ductwork; that distributes cooled air throughout your home

The refrigerant circulates between these components, absorbing heat from indoor air and releasing it outside, resulting in cool air being blown into your living spaces.

Central Air Conditioning System Maintenance Tips

Now, let's explore the key maintenance pointers to keep your central air conditioner in optimal condition.

Clean or Replace Air Filters

Dirty and clogged air filters restrict airflow, forcing your VRV central air conditioning system to work harder and consume more energy. Regularly clean or replace your air filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage and manufacturer recommendations. This simple step not only enhances cooling efficiency but also improves indoor air quality by removing dust, allergens, and pollutants.

Inspect and Clean the Outdoor Unit

The outdoor condenser unit is exposed to elements such as dust, debris, and vegetation. Periodically inspect the unit and remove any debris that may have accumulated around it. Ensure that there is ample space around the unit for proper airflow. Trim any overgrown vegetation and clean the condenser coils using a soft brush or vacuum cleaner to maintain efficient heat exchange.

Check and Clean the Indoor Evaporator Coil

Over time, the indoor evaporator coil can accumulate dirt and dust, hampering its ability to cool the air effectively. Carefully clean the coil using a soft brush or a specialized coil cleaner. Avoid using excessive force, as the coils are delicate. Clean coils promote better cooling performance and prevent energy wastage of your VRV central AC.

Clear the Condensate Drain Line

The condensate drain line removes excess moisture from your VRV central air conditioner unit. Over time, it can become clogged with algae, mold, or debris, leading to water leaks or system malfunctions. Inspect the drain line regularly and clear any obstructions using a mixture of bleach and water or a specialized drain line cleaner. You must make sure of proper drainage to avoid any kind of water damage.

Test and Adjust Thermostat Settings

Check the accuracy of your thermostat by comparing the displayed temperature with an independent thermometer. If necessary, recalibrate or replace the thermostat. Consider using a programmable or smart thermostat to optimize energy usage and create personalized cooling schedules for different times of the day.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

While some maintenance tasks can be done by homeowners, it is recommended to schedule professional maintenance at least once a year. A trained technician will thoroughly inspect and service your Daikin central air conditioning system, identifying any underlying issues and performing necessary repairs or adjustments. Professional maintenance helps extend the lifespan of your unit and ensures efficient operation.

Seal and Insulate Ductwork

Leaky ducts of your VRV central air conditioner can lead to cooled air escaping before it reaches your living spaces, wasting energy and reducing cooling efficiency. Inspect your ductwork for leaks or gaps and seal them using duct sealant or metallic tape. Additionally, insulate exposed ductwork in unconditioned spaces to prevent heat gain or loss.

Keep the Surrounding Area Clean

While installing a new central air conditioner, you need to make sure the area around it is clean and free from any wild plant growth. However, your job does not end just here. You also need to maintain this clean and clutter-free area around your VRV central AC. For this, you can remove any objects or debris that obstruct airflow to the outdoor unit. Regularly clean vents and registers inside your home to prevent dust accumulation.

Monitor Energy Consumption

Track your VRV central air conditioner’s energy consumption to identify any unusual spikes that may indicate a problem. Unusually high energy usage could signify issues such as a refrigerant leak or inefficient system operation. Promptly address such issues to prevent further damage and ensure energy-efficient cooling. This way, you can make sure you fix the problem before it gets worse.

In conclusion,

Proper maintenance is essential for maintaining the performance and efficiency of your VRV central air conditioning system. By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure a cool and comfortable summer while maximizing energy savings. Regularly cleaning or replacing air filters, inspecting and cleaning the outdoor unit and indoor coils, clearing the condensate drain line, testing thermostat settings, scheduling professional maintenance, sealing and insulating ductwork, keeping the surrounding area clean, and monitoring energy consumption are key steps in maintaining your VRV central AC. With proper care, your central air conditioner will continue to provide reliable and efficient cooling for years to come.