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AIR
CONDITIONER FILTER |
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Many parts of the country have been so cool that air conditioners are
only now getting their first workout. With that in mind, here are a few
use and maintenance tips, an appliance parts retailer and a source of
repair information.
First, don't use a foam filter that's worn-out. Aside from the fact that
it doesn't do a very good job of trapping particles, it's liable to send
tiny particles of foam into the airstreams. Replace worn-out or filthy
filters with a plastic electrostatic mesh filter (shown above). Filter
kits are available at hardware stores. They cost about $7.
The new filter couldn't be easier to install. Simply cut it to fit with
a pair of scissors. The filter media is polypropylene plastic mesh with
an electrostatic charge that attracts particles in the airstreams. Rinse
it out to clean it, then let it dry before reinstalling it.
If you expect cool overnight temperatures, turn the air conditioner off
and open the windows. Why? Because a window air conditioner will cool
the airstreams by 30° or more. So if the temperature in your house drops
to 60°F, the air conditioner may get as cold as 30°F. This is enough to
cause the air conditioner's coils to freeze. Aside from wasting energy,
this can also damage the appliance.
People often wonder whether their air conditioner should be making
gurgling noises, or they wonder why it does that. Aside from cooling the
air stream, an air conditioner also removes moisture from the air by
condensing it. The condensate is flung against the condenser coils,
causing it to re-evaporate to the outside of the house. This cools the
condenser coils in the process. So it's common to hear water sloshing
around as the air conditioner runs. Of course, if you notice moisture
dribbling into the house, reposition the unit slightly so it pitches
toward the outside. |
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Replace
your carrier air conditioner filter at the start of summer and check its
condition monthly. 
