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May 14, 2008 4:12 pm US/Pacific
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Save With Dave: Air Conditioning Maintenance
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) ―
And as the mercury rises, so do our electric bills.
Before you know it, you'll be running your air conditioner like crazy, but maintaining your unit yourself can really cut down costs.
Here's what to do for window and wall units:
Unplug, and clean the outside of it. Then, clean the air filter if it's not too worn. It may need cleaning once a month when you're using it regularly. Clean the evaporator coils using a paintbrush or vacuum with a soft attachment. Then, clear the condensation drains located below the evaporator coil and then reinstall your portable unit.
You can also maintain your central A.C:
Clean the outside of your vents using a wet cloth with a household cleaner, like Fantasik. Then, clean the condenser coil, its large unit that sits on a slab outside your home. Next, go inside and change the main air filter; unscrew the face of the unit, take out the old and dirty filter, and replace it with a new one.
You can find filters at any home improvement store for about $10.
You may also want to get an annual checkup by a heating, ventilation and air-conditioning contractor. On average, it will cost you about $150, but check your warranty, it may be covered.
Average air conditioning wall units costs about $550. By replacing the air filter and coils regularly, you can maintain the one you already have for about $30.
That could save you more than $500.
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