With energy prices predicted to rise as much as 30% in the next few months, keeping your A/C unit running efficiently is more important than ever. There are two easy things you can do yourself to keep your unit running smoothly and reduce your energy costs.

Unclog your condensate drain tube

If you see puddles collecting around the heating and A/C unit (or HVAC) it indicates that there may be a clog in the drain tube. That tube collects the condensation from your HVAC unit and moves it out of the unit. But over time, mold and bacteria can collect and even clog that tube.

To eliminate the clog from your drain tube, use about a cup of a 50/50 mix of bleach and warm water (you can also use vinegar in place of bleach). Look for the T-shaped object on your inside unit. Open that and pour the bleach mixture. As you do, watch to make sure the fluid comes out quickly. If it does not, check to make sure the drain line is angled down. Here in Florida, we recommend you clean this tube every month when you change the filter.

Change the Air Filters

Air filters are designed to trap small particles of dust, pet hair and other pollutants and keep them out of your HVAC unit. The filter protects your air quality, but it also protects your unit from dirt that can harm your freon tubes, condensation tubes, and ductwork. Over time, a clogged air filter will make your unit less efficient and eventually cause your HVAC unit to stop working.

We recommend changing your air filter at least every 30 days. If the vent is still clean, you can wait another month before replacing it. If you have family members with allergies or the filter has an excessive amount of dust or hair build up, then you may want to replace them more often.

To change the air filter, be sure to turn off the unit first. Remove the used filter, then place the new filter making, sure the air flow arrows point toward the unit.

There are many different styles and sizes of air filters, so be sure to choose the correct size to fit your unit. If you have family members with allergies, please contact us so we can come out and help you determine the right kind of filtration products to meet your needs.

Preventive Maintenance 

Custom Heating & Air of Florida provides homeowners with an annual preventive maintenance program to keep your heat and A/C working at maximum efficiency. Our experienced team members can identify potential problems with the unit while also inspecting, cleaning, and lubricating the unit. We will also check the refrigerant to assure the level is correct and check the connections to make sure there are no leaks.

To schedule a maintenance check-up, call us at 904.246.1202 or visit our website to request an appointment at CustomHeatingAir.com.