Air Conditioner Covers

Covers are used to protect air conditioners from unfavorable weather conditions such as condensation, dew, cold drafts, extreme heat, etc. They also keep dust and small insects away from the body of the air conditioner and its different components.

Dust Covers are made of synthetic material such as vinyl, plastics, terylene or Dacron. They are washable and are fastened and unfastened on the air conditioner by plastic zippers or Velcro fasteners. These Covers can be used to cover the entire body of the air conditioner, except the region which contains the duct and the button controls. They are available in a large number of sizes and colors. Mostly they are made in standard air conditioner sizes and can be bought directly from the shops. Some companies also manufacture Custom Covers after taking specifications from the ordering company.

Weatherizing Covers are more detailed in their design. These Covers are made of special plastics, such as polyurethane, or metals, and they can be fitted on the air conditioner. Most of these Covers have direct attachments with the front and back faces of the air conditioners. Others can be attached on the air conditioner using duct tape, caulk or mess. These Covers pack not only the air conditioner, but even the tiny gaps around it so as to prevent any cold drafts from entering inside the room. Some better-quality Covers can also absorb the vibration of the air conditioner, and reduce the noise it creates.

Portable air conditioners use Covers that envelop them completely. Zippers running through their entire length on one of the edges can secure them over the air conditioner?s body. These are made of synthetic plastics and are available in most colors and sizes.

Some Covers are also available in aesthetic designs for use in living room air conditioners. There are lace Covers and Covers with various designs and patterns on them. More than protection, these Covers aim at rendering beauty to the room by disguising the air conditioner.

Simple Dust Covers are available at less than $20. But custom-designed Covers and Weatherizing Covers may cost much higher depending on the specifications required.

How to compare and find the best air conditioner.

Save your conservatory from the Green House effect this summer. Prevent yourself from wilting like a flower by installing an Air conditioner; we help you decide which one.

Choosing an Air conditioner is still a task which requires a little knowledge and a bit of background, at Text4price we have decided to help you out so you can chill out at your leisure.

Air conditioners can provide very effective and efficient cooling for rooms of all sizes in the home. They also clean the air and control moisture levels which can help with allergies. Portable air conditioners can be the most convenient, moving them from room to room as necessary. However compared to a pedestal fan or air cooler they are much more bulky.

Central air conditioning systems are designed to cool the entire home and usually require professional installation but it is becoming easier to find self installation kits available online or instore and these are much less intrusive.

In most cases and Air conditioner will require access to an open door or window. This is so that the hot air removed from the room can be disposed of  outside. With a portable unit this is a temporary set up, with a hose placed out of the window or door the drawback with this is that you have an unsightly tube trailing across your room.

All Air conditioners are rated in BTUs (British thermal units) per hour. The higher the BTU rating, the more powerful the unit.

It is important to remember that different air conditioners use different amounts of electricity to get rid of the same amount of heat.

Always look at the energy efficiency rating - EER. The higher the EER, the higher the efficiency and the less it will cost to run and the better it will  therefore also be for the environment.

The drawback is that the higher ratings come at a higher price. If it is not displayed on the product packaging or in its description you can always calculate a unit's EER by dividing the number of BTUs per hour by the number of watts of electricity used by the unit.  
 
It is most important to choose the right size of air conditioner  
 
The size you need depends on the size of your room. If you choose a unit that is too small it will not cool the room adequately, however buy too larger a unit and its going to cost you more to operate and may cool the room too quickly, leaving excess moisture in the air.

In addition to the size of the room, you will also need to consider the number and size of the windows and the type of glass they are fitted with as well as  the direction the room faces and the amount of shade available, West facing walls get hotter than south facing walls.

Consider how well insulated the room is and how many people use the room and what other electronic equipment you have in there like TV's etc. Add roughly 600  BTUs for every additional person in the room and typically 1000 BTUs for each appliance.

Then measure the size of the room - width, length and height - before you start shopping. A good salesperson will be able to calculate the correct unit capacity and should therefore be asking you for these measurements and the answers to the above questions.

Finally You should buy the unit that has the correct capacity for the size of your room, with the highest EER that you can afford. But don't forget you can always haggle if you know what the best price is and that's where we can help.

Text find then the product name to 84070 and we'll see if we can track you down  a better deal from an online merchant.

Or visit Text4Price.com to compare prices from online suppliers and track down a cool deal.If you use this article drop us an email at seo@epicado.com and we will link to you.

Portable Air Conditioners Review

When most people think of portable air conditioners, what comes to mind is usually basic information that's not particularly interesting or beneficial. But there's a lot more to portable air conditioners than just the basics.

With the onset of the damp weather, it becomes difficult to survive without constant central air conditioning but that can prove to be quite expensive. The answer to this problem is a portable air conditioner as it has many advantages. It is easy to shift from one place in the home to another and that makes a portable air conditioner the ideal cooling system solution for your home, office or industrial site.

The portable air conditioners are easy and quick to install, as they do not involve any lifting or tearing up of windowsills. Moreover it can be shifted very easily from one place in the home to the other. For taking care of the hot spots in the central air conditioning, the portable air conditioners are far more convenient than window air conditioners. It is also ideal for window shapes, which present problems for installation. There is nothing like portable air conditioners for use as a spot cooler in the home.

A portable air conditioner is an excellent choice for saving money as just one unit needs to be purchased and it can be shifted easily to where you need it as it is mounted on castors and some can weigh only about 36 pounds. Moreover, as only one room is cooled at a time instead of the whole house, the total energy consumption is very low as compared to other air conditioning systems.

How can you put a limit on learning more? The next section may contain that one little bit of wisdom that changes everything.

Another advantage of portable air conditioners is the energy efficiency that they provide. The average efficiency is in the 8 to 10 range although some are as high as 15, which is 50 percent better than most older central air conditioners. The small size of the portable air conditioners is very advantageous and as such it can fit in a corner or against a wall. It functions like an effective dehumidifier if you do not vent the warm exhaust air out through a window and its size is also the same as that of a room dehumidifier.

In order to reduce humidity and allergies, even the small ones remove 35 pints of moisture per day from the room air. The portable air conditioners also use the heat-exchange principle as the other air conditioners to cool and dehumidify the air. The operating principle is also similar to a window air conditioner as the room air circulates over cold evaporator coils to cool and dehumidify it inside the unit. The room air is exhausted outdoor after flowing over the hot condenser. There is no chance of already-cooled indoor air escaping outside as two ducts are now used.

Nowadays, you have electronic controls in most models and you can set the desired room temperature, blower speed, start and stop timer, and operation mode (cool, dehumidify, heat). The portable air conditioners also have hand-held remote control with which you can conveniently change all the settings as per your need.

The other features of portable air conditioners include a built-in air cleaner with an optional charcoal filter and oscillating louvers to distribute the cool air throughout the room. You can also switch off the louvers to direct the flow of air towards yourself, if you so desire. The day will come when you can use something you read about here to have a beneficial impact. Then you'll be glad you took the time to learn more about portable air conditioners.

Masni Rizal Mansor provide tips and review on portable air conditioners, Carrier air conditioners and central air conditioners.

Choosing The Right Air Conditioner For Your Home

During the hot summer afternoons and warm muggy nights, an air conditioner can help to keep us cool and improve our ability to deal with extreme heat. Just as a heating unit provides a customized temperature, an air conditioner can be controlled to maintain a comfortable temperature of our choosing.

If you have a small home or find that one room is particularly hot, then a single room air conditioner may be the answer for you. These units are portable, meaning they can be moved from one room to another and are much less expensive than a large air conditioner that heats an entire home.

If you have a large home or simply do not wish to purchase multiple single room air conditioner units, then a larger model will be ideal for cooling every room in the house. Large air conditioner units usually begin at $2,000.00 and go up, depending on the manufacturer or company that you purchase from. These units require professional installation, which is usually done by the company who sells air conditioner units. Upon delivery, they will install the air conditioner and provide the customer with any warranty information that accompanies the unit.

As with most large purchases, including home appliances and accessories, a warranty is provided by the manufacturer. This is typically only available on brand new models and will cover certain repairs or replacements at not cost to the buyer. For example, if a defect relating to materials or workmanship is discovered during the warranty period, the air conditioner will be repaired free of charge. Most warranties do not cover improper care or negligence that results in damage or the products inability to function.

If a customer chooses to handle the installation themselves, they will need to be familiar with the process. Otherwise, they may end up calling a technician later and spending more than if they allowed the retailer to install their air conditioner initially. Once an air conditioner is properly installed, a temperature box will be placed inside the home that will allow residents to adjust the temperature inside. Even on the warmest day, an air conditioner can make your home a comfortable haven away from the heat and humidity that often accompanies the summer months.

Extreme heat can result in headaches, profuse sweating, dehydration and even more serious complications for the elderly or those with weakened immune systems. An air conditioner can help to ease the discomfort of heat while reducing the danger associated with over exposure to extreme temperatures.

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Buy a Room Air Conditioner That is Right For Your and Your Family

Follow these tips and buy an efficient, durable air conditioner to keep your home and family cool and happy.

If you don't have central air conditioning in your house, you may already know that the cost to install a central air conditioning unit is expensive and the installation can be a nightmare. These units can cost $4,000 to $10,000 to install depending on the size and configuration of your house and the available ductwork.

If you decided to consider a room air conditioner instead, you are like millions of others who opt for the simple, less expensive route to cooling their home during the hot summer. But there are so many room air conditioners out there. The choices are confusing!

Before you buy an air conditioner, consider where you want to put the unit. A room air conditioner is vented through a window or a hole in the wall, so you will need a suitable sized window OR clear wall space where you can cut a hole to vent the unit to the outside. Consider the cost of having a carpenter cut a hole in the wall and insulate it so that you don't lose air around the unit during the winter.

Next, you need to think about the square footage you want to cool with your air conditioner. The unit you need for a small bedroom is different than what you will need to cool a living room or family room.

The capacity of a room air conditioning unit is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units) to tell you the size of the room that air conditioning unit will cool. Measure your room or cooling area before you go to the store to buy the air conditioner.

If you are looking at a used air conditioner, be sure you check the age of the unit, its BTU rating AND the efficiency of the air conditioner. Old units are not efficient in their use of electricity. You may save something on the purchase price, but it will cost you a lot more in electricity over the year.

Some new units also have automatic thermostats to turn off the air conditioner, as necessary to keep the room temperature constant.

Check the environmental efficiency rating on new units versus the used air conditioner you are considering. You want to look for environmental efficiency to be sure that the unit does not damage the ozone layer.

You should also check the available warranty on the air conditioner you buy. Check to see what parts and major components are covered by the warranty and for how long.

Less expensive air conditioning units may cost you more in the long run if the parts and major components are not covered by a good warranty. Reputable brands cover major components for ten years, and warranty smaller parts for 1-5 years.

Reduce the electricity cost to run your air conditioner by keeping your blinds and drapes closed on hot days. This helps to reduce the build-up of heat in your house so your air conditioner does not have to work as hard or as long.

Clean the vents and filters on your air conditioner as recommended by the user manual, to ensure that your air conditioning unit is running at maximum efficiency.

Learn everything you need to know to buy a room air conditioner that is right for you and your home. Visit our website: Room Air Conditioner

Raleigh Renfree hates to be to hot! He has search through a number of different air conditioning options. See what he has learned.Learn everything you need to know to buy a room air conditioner that is right for you and your home. Visit our website: http://www.airconditioningdnld.com/airconditioning

Understanding Your Air Conditioner

So many people have them in their homes, but few people truly understand the basics behind their air conditioning units. They know enough to switch them on and set the temperature at the level they desire, but really know little about the parts that make the unit cool their house down. An air conditioner regulates the heat and cold in your house by controlling the humidity and temperature in each room, but do you know how it does this? Whether you are shopping for a new air conditioner or interested in learning about the one you have, the best place to start is with the general terms used to explain the functions of your unit.

BTU: A BTU or British Thermal Unit is the world wide measurement for energy. In layman?s terms it is the amount of heat that is needed to raise a pound of water by one degree of temperature. When you hear someone talk about BTUs in regards to air conditioning they are talking about the amount of heat a unit can remove from a standard sized room. The higher the BTU rating the bigger, more expensive, and heavier the air conditioner is. While many people think that bigger is better, when it comes to air conditioning that is not always the case. It is more important to correctly match the size of a room with the required amount of BTUs. Having too many or too few for the room?s size decreases efficiency and actually hinders the unit from doing its job.

Chassis: The chassis is simply the guts of your air conditioner. It is the frame and working parts exclude from the body of your unit. Smaller units often have a fixed chassis which is easiest to remove for winterizing. Larger units often have a slide out chassis that makes repair work a snap.

EER: The EER is simply calculated by dividing the BTUs into the number of watts. Air conditioners with higher EER numbers should be the most efficient. While a unit with a higher EER number will save you money in the long run, it will cost more to buy. If you don?t live in a really hot area, it might not be worth it to invest in a unit with an EER over 10.

Fan: The fan in an air conditioner works like every other fan you have ever seen. Its sole job is to move the air. When it comes to air conditioners an adjustable thermostat combined with an adjustable speed fan makes the unit very efficient. In an air conditioning unit, you want to look for louvers that not only adjust up and down, but right and left as well.

Filter: Air is surprisingly dirty and a good filter will make a big difference in the quality of the air you breathe. Clean air is also a must if you want to get the most efficient work from your air conditioner. Because clean air is so important to the operation and maintenance of your unit, it is important to change or clean your filters regularly. Because you will be dealing with the filter on a regular basis, it is a good idea to own an air conditioner that has an easily accessible filter.

Thermostat: A thermostat is simply a device used to regulate temperature. Thermostats are heat sensing and therefore able to adjust the output of your air conditioner based on the level of heat in a room. You can get thermostats that are manual or programmable, depending on your needs. If you can get an adjustable thermostat and a variable speed fan, your air conditioning unit will be very efficient.

Once you have a small understanding of how an air conditioning unit not only works, but works most efficiently and effectively, it is a lot easier to find a unit that fits your unique household needs and understand the most efficient ways to run it.

James brown writes about Home Tips and House Appliances

Good Air Conditioners

Many people have trouble purchasing an air conditioning. Many times we have a habit of just focusing on the brand names of the air conditioner. And decide which one is better, but there are more things that you should look at besides the name.

You should focus more on the size and installation of your air conditioner, rather then a high end air conditioning. Because the big factor is the installation, if it is not installed properly you can face more problems later on.

One good reason the have properly sized ac system is humidity control. When it operates the evaporator coil temperature is below the dew point temperature. The result of this is that the moisture condensing on the evaporator reduces the moisture in the air. This would mean a decrease in the humidity. This process cannot happen with an oversized ac, the run cycle on them are too short for this to happen. So keep that in mind when you?re shopping around.

Also maintaining and repairing an over sized ac can cost you much more. The compressor for example, over time will wear out and you will need to get it replaced. If your ac turns on and off for 4 or 5 times in an hour instead of the normal 2 or3. It will wear out your compressor. There are many other factors to look out for when shopping around for an air conditioning unit so be sure to do some research and not be afraid to ask questions.

But at least you know it?s not all in the name. Be sure to pay the extra money and get the air conditioner installed properly, because that is the main thing. Sure there are other aspects, but not everyone has the budget for the air conditioner with better features. So getting it installed properly will save you quite a bit of money down the road.
Mitch Johnson is a successful freelance author that writes regularly for http://www.atv-parts-n-accessories.com/ . His articles have also been featured on related sites such as http://www.coolingsystemsmadeez.info/ and http://www.ezacguide.info/

How Air Conditioners work?

Air Conditioners: In an Air Conditioner chemicals are used to cool the temperature of the room. The liquid chemicals are produced from a gas, which again converts to gas form. The chemical transfers the heat from the inside to the outside of the room.

Mainly the Air Conditioner machine has three parts, a compressor, a condenser and an evaporator. The condenser and compressor are in the outside portion of the machine while the evaporator is located inside the room.

In the processor the chemical, which is a low-pressured cooled gas, enters. The processor then squeezes that chemical. It makes the molecules of the chemical closer together. The closer molecules create high energy and heat. The chemical leaves the compressor as hot and high-pressure gas and enters the condenser. At the backside of the machine we can see a metal fin. It works as a radiator and helps to cool down the heat very quickly. When the chemical leaves the condenser, it become very cold. The liquid flows in the evaporator through a small hole. On the other end the chemical becomes colder and starts to evaporate to gas. As the liquid becomes gas it soaks heat from the surrounding area. The heat of the air is needed to separate molecules of the chemical, which were packed together in the processor. The evaporator also has metal fins to exchange cool temperature with surrounding air. The liquid again leaves the evaporator and begins the same process. A fan connected with the evaporator circulates the cool air into the room.
 

Air Conditioner Buying Tips

Most new homes today have air conditioning units. It is more unusual to see homes without central air then to see ones with it nowadays. Air conditioning can be a necessity in warmer climates for the comfort of the family. Most air conditioner units will range from three to six thousand dollars, including installation. This is not a minor investment but one necessary for comfort. If you need a new air conditioner, there are several things to consider prior to purchasing.

Air conditioning units should be installed by a contractor who is experienced with this type of work. Depending on existing ducts and the type of unit purchased, the price may vary greatly. Get several estimates from qualified contractors before deciding on the unit and installer. Ensure the contractor has experience and works well with you. Get references and check them thoroughly.

Air conditioner units use electricity to run. If the unit is used often this can increase energy costs significantly. This is especially true in warmer climates where it is a necessity to cool the home. To help combat these costs, it is advisable to look at the efficiency of the unit. This may mean a larger initial investment, but should save money in the long run.

The efficiency rating is required to be on all air conditioners. Compare units carefully to determine the cost for each type of efficiency. The more efficient a unit is, the more money you will save on energy bills. A more efficient air conditioner will take less energy to run and cool the entire house.

You will need to determine the appropriate size of the unit needed for your house. This is an important step because units that are too small will have to work harder to cool the home. Units that are too large are simply wasteful and unnecessary. A qualified air conditioner contractor will be able to analyze the size of your home and make recommendations on the size needed.

Always get a contract before starting work with any contractor. Make sure all the costs are clearly spelled out. This should include both the cost of the unit and installation. It should also detail payment policies and warranties. Warranties generally cover the compressor and additional parts. Do not choose a unit that has anything less than a five year warranty on the compressor, but a ten year warranty is better. Additional parts may be warranted anywhere from one to five years and are usually separate.

Gray Rollins is a featured writer for AirConditioningZone.com. To learn more about central air and air conditioner installation, visit us.

Effective Air conditioners - 9 Ways to Cut Your Energy Bill by Half

Do you know that, in summer, the average American family pays about 40% of their energy bill for air conditioning of the house? But it doesn't have to be this way, Use these simple tips to help you keep your house cool and significantly reduce your energy bills during the hot months. 1. If you need to cool only one room, don't use your central air conditioning. Invest in a portable air conditioner, instead. Modern portable units have a very high energy efficiency rating, so it will cool your room effectively and save you a lot. 2. Install mini-blinds or white window shades. Mini-blinds can be very effective and can reduce heat gain from direct sunlight by 40-50 percent. You can also hang bamboo shades or tightly woven screens outside your windows. This will stop up to 80 percent of the sun's heat from getting through your windows. 3. Keep all windows closed during the day. At night you can open them for ventilation and switch on a fan instead of an air conditioner. 4. If you are using a mini split air conditioner, make sure that the outside compressor is well shaded. However, trees and shrubs shouldn't be planted right next to it; it needs some room for air flow.

5. It is best to clean your air conditioner filter at least once a month. Dust build-ups can significantly reduce air flow.

6. When buying an air conditioner unit, make sure that it is the right size for your room. A unit that is too small will not cool your room effectively, and an A/C that is too large will consume much more energy than necessary. See recommendations for proper air conditioner sizes for your room.

7. If you use central air conditioning, seal all A/C ducts. Insulate ducts that run through rooms that don't need cooling, like the basement or the attic.

8. If your air conditioner is old, consider replacing it with a modern high efficiency unit. Older A/C systems have a SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) of only 6 or 7, while the best air conditioners on the market today offer SEER as high as 13. That means that it will consume almost 50% less energy.

9. Cooking, drying cloth or dishwashing generates a lot of heat. Try to delay these activities until the evening, when it gets cooler.

Most people just switch their air conditioners on and set the desired temperature. This will cool your room, of course, but it will cost you, too. Furthermore, excessive energy consumption is not environmentally friendly, so by following our simple advice you could not only save on your bills, but you could also help to reduce pollution in your area.

Visit 100 Air Conditioner Reviews for tips on getting the best room air conditioner, price comparison and customer reviews of air conditioners

Portable Air Conditioners - an Inexpensive Cooling Solution for Your Home

Portable air conditioners have become very popular in recent years. Many people use them even if they have a central system because portable A/C can provide excellent cooling for a significantly lower cost. Find out about the pros and cons of a mobile A/C unit and if one could work for you. A portable air conditioner is a self contained unit, usually about 30 inches tall and about 80 pounds in weight. The best thing is that it doesn't require any installation: it stands on the floor and you don't have to fit it in your window or your wall. Most mobile A/C units have little wheels, so you can easily move them around. Portable A/C pros: - you can move your portable unit from room to room, so there is no need to buy a window-mounted air conditioner for each room - you don't have to block your window or make holes in your wall - a portable air conditioner is ready to use as soon as you unpack it - using a mobile air conditioner to cool only one room instead of switching on a central system saves you a lot on energy bills Parable air conditioner cons: - a portable unit costs slightly more than a window air conditioner with a similar cooling capacity - comparable to central air conditioning and mini-split systems (where the compressor is outside), portable A/C is loud. If noise is an issue, look at the reviews of several portable units and select the one that makes the least noise. Is portable A/C effective in cooling large rooms? That depends on the size of your unit. Small portable units with cooling capacities of about 8000 BTU are perfect for a 300 sq. foot room, while larger 24000 BTU air conditioners can effectively cool a 1000 sq. foot room. So, as you can see, a properly sized mobile air conditioner can do a good job even in a very large room. However, you should know that larger doesn't necessarily mean better. An air conditioner that is too large will consume more energy and won't cool your room effectively, because it will stop and start constantly. Portable air conditioner energy efficiency Everybody knows that air conditioners chew a lot of energy, so energy efficiency is a big issue. However, recent developments in technology allow manufacturers to produce very efficient air conditioners. A few years ago an EER (energy efficiency ratio) of 6 or 7 was considered good. Now the standard is 12 or higher. Modern portable air conditioners are as energy efficient as window or mini split units. To select the most efficient air conditioner, look at its EER - the higher, the better. Also choose a unit with an Energy Star. The Energy Star means that an air conditioner meets energy efficiency guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy. How affordable is a mobile air conditioner? You might be surprised to learn that portable A/C is not too expensive. The prices have gone down significantly, in recent years, and now you can buy a good unit from around $300. Of course, air conditioners with a larger cooling capacity cost more, and so do those with higher energy efficiency ratings. However, when it comes to paying more for a more efficient unit, you actually save money because your energy bill will be lower.

To conclude, if you don't have air conditioning and don't feel like investing in a central system, a portable air conditioner can be a great alternative. And if you have a central A/C, it's still a good idea to have a portable unit for cooling just the room you are in, instead of the entire house. It can significantly reduce your bills.

Tanya Turner publishes 100 Air Conditioner Reviews.com where you can find tips on air conditioner shopping, price comparison and reviews of portable air conditioners .

Air Conditioners

It's that time of year again. Things are starting to heat up, the snow is melting and it's time to start looking for a new air conditioner or swamp cooler. Along with the warm weather comes the allergy inducing pollens and debry in the air. If you have allergies, you may want to invest in an air conditioner with air purifying and air cleaning features. If you live in a dry climate, you may want a humidifier. Some air conditioner systems may include all of the above features, and more. This article will tell you what to look for in an air conditioner and help you decide what type of air conditioner system will be right for you this summer.

There are many types of air conditioners, and many variables that can affect which air conditioner you purchase. If you are looking at the long term and live in a climate with both extreme summers and winters, you may want a system that is both an air conditioner and a heater. If you would like to cool or heat only certain areas of your house, or particular rooms, to conserve energy, or just for convenience, a portable air conditioner may suit your needs. A portable air conditioner can also be taken on trips to relatives, to the cabin by the lake, on a boat, or a number of other places.

A dry climate can irritate your skin causing it to become too dry and begin to crack. For those who have a hard time coping with a dry climate you may want to look at air conditioners that includes a humidifier feature. You can create your own refuge from the heat and dryness of the environment that surrounds you. On the other hand, you may live in an overly humid climate, in which case you may consider purchasing a dehumidifier to get that sticky wet feeling off of your body that those who have lived in humid climates understand.

If you have allergies, you may want an air purifier feature attached with your air conditioner. When looking for air purifiers, be sure to find out if it is a HEPA, a brand well known for removing toxins and allergens from the air through their powerful HEPA air filters. HEPA and activated carbon technology can remove the smallest airborne particles and eliminate noxious gases, chemicals, and odors. Separate air cleaner filters eliminate virtually all irritants, including infectious microorganisms. Check the description of your air purifier before you purchase it, to see how powerful and effective it is, for example, for how many square feed it is guaranteed to purify the air. Some air purifiers are good for purifying the air in a single room, while others may purify your whole house.

Evaporative coolers and swamp coolers or air conditioners work by soaking water through foam like filters. As the water evaporates, the air flowing through the filters cools significantly. The evaporating water takes the heat from the pads. A fan inside the unit sucks the air through, speeding up the evaporative process and blowing the cool air into your home or office. The pads can catch much of the bad air and keep it from entering your home or office as well.

Be sure to research your air conditioners, swamp coolers, humidifiers, and evaporative coolers as this warm season begins, so that you can find one that is most suitable to your needs. There are many types of air conditioners with a variety of features that may or may not be best for you.

Peter Jay is a Search Engine Marketing professional for Air Conditioner Home. To learn more about air conditioners, swamp coolers, humidifiers, or evaporative coolers, visit www.air-conditioner-home.com.

Portable Single Room Air Conditioner Models Offer Versatility

Most houses today are built with central air. Those that don't have it, tend to have at least a window unit. So why would someone want to invest in a portable single room air conditioner?

There are a lot of reasons people gravitate toward portable single room air conditioner models, but perhaps the most compelling is common sense. These units provide a versatility that stationary machines can never offer. Plus, they can save energy. Saving energy equates to saving money. So, why cool or heat an entire house if the family spends all of its time in one room? Or, why argue over what temperatures to keep different rooms at if you don't have to? There's no need to have two air conditioning zones in a large house when you have a portable unit.

Portable single room units are easy to use, they work well and are affordable. There are lots of advantages to using single room units over cranking up the entire cooling system in a house. Plus, these work great for older homes that might not have cooling systems throughout.

Why suffer through a brutally hot summer when a portable unit is affordable and easy to use? There's no need to be uncomfortable thanks to these units.

Typical portable units offer a number of features that make them more than worth looking at. These include:

? Obviously, portability. The units can move from room to room with the user, cooling only what needs to be cooled without having to alter windows. Try picking up a window unit to move it from the kitchen to the bedroom at the end of the night!

? Self-evaporating designs. Many portable units even come with features that lessen the number of times the condensation retainer must be emptied. This makes that less of a hassle to use and also helps remove some of the moisture from the air in a home. This is good for the home's environment and the possessions within. Moisture leads to mold, which can create health concerns and even damage furniture and books.

? Different fan speeds. This enables more user control, just like a window unit or full central air unit.

? Thermostat control. Just like a full-size unit, portable machines also offer the ability for users to determine the temperature of a room.

? Directional control. These enable users to point the flow of air in the direction they'd like. This combined with the portability makes these units great for optimum user control.

Portable air conditioners also offer some other specialized features depending on the unit in question. Some of these can include washable air filters, carbon filters to clean the air and remove odors, digital displays, timers and even remote controls.

Cooling an entire house when only a single room really needs it is a waste of energy and money. Smaller units can remove the need to turn on a more expensive unit while still providing the cooling necessary to make occupants in a home comfortable, which makes them a great buy.

Portable air conditioner information.

http://www.portableairconditionersreview.com

Window and Portable Air Conditioners

Window Air Conditioners - How To Reduce The Noise Level

Perhaps the most widely used air conditioners are the window air conditioners. They are quite popular for heating and cooling in both domestic and commercial premises. The basic advantage of a window air conditioner is that unlike the central air conditioners and the split air conditioners, it fits well in the window giving a good look and it does not occupy any space of the room at all.

Moreover, window air conditioners do not need to be shifted every now and then from one place to the other. However, like any other air conditioning equipment, it produces noise, the intensity of which differs with the type and size of the window air conditioners. Constant noise can indeed be very disturbing and distressing to the home and surrounding residents.

It is, therefore, advisable for the consumer to compare window air conditioners by checking the sound power level labels on the unit or in the literature specifications. The noise levels are often given in decibel ratings and the higher the decibel level, the louder the unit will be. The sound pressure increases by a factor of ten for every 10-decibel increase. For example, 60 Decibels is 10 times louder than 50 Decibels and 100 times louder than 40 Decibels.

The compressor and the fan are combined in a single unit and mounted in the window air conditioners and this is the source of all the noise in the air conditioner. The other causes of noise could be worn bearings, cabinet rattles, dirty or rusty fan blades, worn rubber mountings and compressor wear. Regular maintenance can reduce the noise to some extent but with the passing of time, there is bound to be an increase in the level of the noise.

You should check whether your window air conditioner is vibrating or producing a rattling noise and if so, then it is not a normal situation. The reason for this can be improper installation or loose side panels. If, however, you hear a scraping noise, you should either take the help of an authorized service provider or you can also try to find out the cause and repair it yourself.

The following steps can help you in tracking the fault and repairing it:

You should tighten the screws holding the front panel onto the unit. You should check carefully the window all round the unit. You should then turn the window air conditioner on and press your hand against the sash. If you find that as you press your hand against the sash, the sound changes in pitch, then you should put some wooden shims in the gap between the window air conditioners frame and the sash. If, however, the pitch of the noise changes when you press your hand on the glass, you should use some insulating cellophane tape between the glass and the frame. You might have to use putty if that does not reduce the noise.

If you feel that the sound is originating from within the unit, you should take the unit out of the window and check to see if the fan blades are bent. If so, just bend them back so that they match the others.

Portable Air Conditioners Ensure Economy And Convenience

With the onset of the damp weather, it becomes difficult to survive without constant central air conditioning but that can prove to be quite expensive. The answer to this problem is a portable air conditioner as it has many advantages. It is easy to shift from one place in the home to another and that makes a portable air conditioner the ideal cooling system solution for your home, office or industrial site.

The portable air conditioners are easy and quick to install, as they do not involve any lifting or tearing up of windowsills. Moreover it can be shifted very easily from one place in the home to the other. For taking care of the hot spots in the central air conditioning, the portable air conditioners are far more convenient than window air conditioners. It is also ideal for window shapes, which present problems for installation. There is nothing like portable air conditioners for use as a spot cooler in the home.

A portable air conditioner is an excellent choice for saving money as just one unit needs to be purchased and it can be shifted easily to where you need it as it is mounted on castors and some can weigh only about 36 pounds. Moreover, as only one room is cooled at a time instead of the whole house, the total energy consumption is very low as compared to other air conditioning systems.

Another advantage of portable air conditioners is the energy efficiency that they provide. The average efficiency is in the 8 to 10 range although some are as high as 15, which is 50 percent better than most older central air conditioners. The small size of the portable air conditioners is very advantageous and as such it can fit in a corner or against a wall. It functions like an effective dehumidifier if you do not vent the warm exhaust air out through a window and its size is also the same as that of a room dehumidifier.

In order to reduce humidity and allergies, even the small ones remove 35 pints of moisture per day from the room air. The portable air conditioners also use the heat-exchange principle as the other air conditioners to cool and dehumidify the air. The operating principle is also similar to a window air conditioner as the room air circulates over cold evaporator coils to cool and dehumidify it inside the unit. The room air is exhausted outdoor after flowing over the hot condenser. There is no chance of already-cooled indoor air escaping outside as two ducts are now used.

Nowadays, you have electronic controls in most models and you can set the desired room temperature, blower speed, start and stop timer, and operation mode (cool, dehumidify, heat). The portable air conditioners also have hand-held remote control with which you can conveniently change all the settings as per your need.

The other features of portable air conditioners include a built-in air cleaner with an optional charcoal filter and oscillating louvers to distribute the cool air throughout the room. You can also switch off the louvers to direct the flow of air towards yourself, if you so desire.

Air Conditioners

Air conditioning

Air Conditioners, What Could Be More Important Than A Good Brand Name

A common misconception about air conditioning equipment is that Brand Name is the best indicator of quality. While it is true

that some brands are better than others, this is not the main criterion you should use when making your buying decision. You

may do yourself a great disservice if you overlook this. The most important factor regarding central air conditioners and heat pumps, without exception, is the quality of the

installation.

A high-end air conditioning system installed in an unprofessional manor, without regard for quality of installation or proper

sizing will not perform any better than a low-end system installed with emphasis on the quality of the installation. Furthermore, using the above example, the operating and maintenance costs associated with the high-end system may very well

exceed that of the low-end system by a large amount over the life of the equipment.

These expenses will show in increased monthly energy costs, maintenance costs, and equipment breakdowns. There are also

concerns about indoor air quality, and noise.

One of the benefits of a properly sized air conditioning system is humidity control. The operating characteristics of air

conditioners is similar to dehumidifiers. The evaporator coil temperature is below the dew point temperature when in

operation. This results in moisture condensing on the evaporator and reduces the moisture content in the air. This results

in lower humidity. The run cycles of an over sized air conditioner will be too short for this dehumidification process to

occur.

The run cycles of an undersized system will be too long and may keep humidity levels too low. This system will loose a lot

of its capacity to the dehumidification process and only cool effectively when humidity is very low.

Maintenance and repair costs can be higher than normal on an over sized air conditioner. There are components in air

conditioners that require replacement from time to time because they wear out. For example the compressor contactor. The

contactor is the device that operates the compressor. Each time the compressor starts, the contactor closes. The more often

the compressor starts and stops the faster this part will wear out. The compressor is another example. It is common knowledge the greatest amount of wear on a car engine is at start up. The

same is true of an air conditioner compressor. There is oil in the compressor and each time it cycles off the oil drains

from the bearings and gets picked up again at startup. Because there is less oil for lubrication at startup, this is when

the greatest amount of compressor wear happens. If your air conditioner cycles on and off 4 or 5 times per hour instead of

the normal 2 or 3 times per hour it only makes sense that this causes more wear on the compressor.

These are only some of problems associated with over sized and undersized air conditioning equipment. There are other

complications that add to these problems and cost you more money. So when shopping for a new air conditioning system get

more than one or two prices and make sure the contractor does proper load calculations so you can avoid these problems.

When selectinghome air conditioners it is very important to consider all of your options. Maintaining this equipment is equally important. A good first step in air conditioner maintenance is choosing qualityfurnace filters and air conditioner filters

Air Conditioners - How to Cut Running Costs in Half

In today's world, most people have invested in one form of an air conditioner or another. We have either window air conditioners in our homes or central air conditioners. They keep us cool in the extreme summer heat without fail; however, have you ever set back and looked at the costs of running an air conditioner? When compared to the common household fan the amount of electricity required to run an air conditioner is phenomenal.

When using an air conditioner there are many different factors that can directly affect the cost of running it. These factors include the geographical location of your home, where you live and the amount of work the air conditioner has to do greatly influence the cost. If you live in an area that has mild summers and extremely cold winters, obviously your air conditioner will not have to work as hard. However, if you live in an area, that has warm winters and boiling summers the air conditioner will have to work double time to maintain comfort.

The difference in weather conditions from year to year will affect the costs as well. This is basically geared towards the difference in costs per year. One summer might be cooler than the next, which will lead to a greater bill.

The efficiency rating of your air conditioner plays an important role in the amount of electricity used. Most all appliances in today's world are rated, when you purchase an air conditioner it will have a tag telling you the amount of electricity that appliance uses. Look for air conditioners that use minimal electricity, which will save you money each year. If you have a model that is 10 years or older, it is definitely time to consider a new one.

Another important factor is the size of the air conditioner versus the house-cooling load. All air conditioners come in different sizes, and each will state the amount of space it is designed to cool. For example, an apartment could do with just one or two window air conditioners, while a three-bedroom house could not. Closely consider the amount of space you need to cool when considering an air conditioner. While larger air conditioners will cost more money, it will typically save you money in the long run on usage.

The setting on your thermostat greatly effects the cost. A higher setting will result in the air conditioner running less, while lowering the setting will cause it to run more often. One electric company suggests keeping the thermostat above 78 degrees. This can save you 10 to 20% on cooling costs.

Finally, the local cost of electricity influences the general cost of running your air conditioner. This is something you have no control over, however, you can control your own cost by saving energy.

Here is a general look at the difference of running an air conditioner vs. running a Ceiling or oscillating fan, at medium speed.

Running a central air conditioner that is three ton (and of average efficiency) for 8 hours per day for 15 days per month, with the average rate per kWh (kilowatt per hour) being 0.17, the average cost per month for the air conditioner alone will be $97.92. Amazing isn't it? This does not even include washer, dryer, lights, refrigerator, or stove, only the air conditioner.

On the other hand, running a ceiling fan or oscillating fan at medium speed, for 8 hours per day, for a full 30 days, at an average rate per kWh of 0.035 is only $1.43. With this comparison you could run 68 ? fans for a full month before you would reach the cost of the central air conditioning unit.

There are many other things you can do to lower you electric bill. Things such as, inspect, clean, or replace your air conditioner filters monthly. When you are not in your home, raise the temperature on your thermostat, keeping in mind pets when you do. Lower the temperature of your water heater to 120 degrees, wash only full loads in your dishwasher or clothes washer, and use the energy saving cycle on the dryer.

Other steps you can take include, replacing incandescent bulbs with fluorescent lamps, this could save up to 75% on lighting costs. You should also caulk all windows, doors, and pipes to prevent air leaks in or out, use weather stripping around windows, doors and pipes as well. Have your ducts tested for air leaks; leaking ducts can reduce the efficiency of your air conditioner by up to 20%.

Ethan K. Roberts writes on a variety of topics not limited to air conditioners. Also available are more articles on room air conditioners and air conditioner rental.

Central Air Conditioners

When buying new central air conditioning equipment, it is very important to have the work done by a qualified contractor. Most review sites and available information say that the best way to save money on a central conditioning unit is by hiring a good contractor. This is followed in close second by picking an energy efficient system. A proper installation of a central air conditioner will ensure that the unit is tightly sealed and no energy is wasted thought leaky ducts thus saving as much money as possible.

When speaking of saving money through efficient air conditioning systems the topic of SEER usually comes up.Central air conditioners are rated by something called SEER or seasonal energy efficiency ratio. Without going into details, the higher the SEER the more efficient your central conditioning system is thus saving you money and helping the environment through less power demand.

Most central air cooling systems run on Freon and have for many years but this is apparently going to change. Freon will be replaced by a newer refrigerant called Puron that is friendlier to the environment no later than 2010. The good news about this is that although Puron powered central air conditioners may cost more initially, the Freon machines and parts are going to get scarce. Getting scarce parts for your conditioning unit will cost you as all the older machines start to break down and need repairs, but parts are harder to find.

Speaking of costs, this is the one glaring down point of a central cooling system. While cost may not be an issue for some, the central air conditioner unit is the most expensive way to cool your house on the initial investment. Because the conditioning unit must be installed and venting systems run, you will have to hire a contractor. Therefore part of the cost of getting a central cooling system will depend the flexible pricing of the local contractor. With the unit air conditioning systems this is not an issue, but again with the unit systems you can only cool one room at a time and they could be a bit of an eye sore in a posh setting.

Ray Burton explains about different kinds of air conditioners, how they work and what to look for when buying your first portable or window air conditioner unit

How to Choose the Right Air Conditioner Filter

The air filter in an air conditioning system keeps the cooling coils and air inside the room clean and free from all pollutants, pet dander, ozone emissions and airborne particles.

There are many different kinds of air filters available today, such as HEPA, standard, pleated, electrostatic and electronic filters. Of these, standard, pleated and electrostatic filters are the most common types of filters that are used in air conditioners. Generally these filters are located in walls, ceilings, furnaces, or in the air conditioner itself.

Standard Air Filters, having the capacity of removing 10 percent of the airborne pollutants, are made of spun fiberglass with cardboard frames. They should be changed once a month.

Pleated Air Filters catch around 35% to 40% of the particles in the air. Owing to their greater surface area with filter material folded back and forth like a paper fan, manufacturers claim that they can last from two to four months. The cost of these filters ranges from $5 to $20 which is slightly more than that of standard filters.

Electrostatic filters use filter media, which use an electric charge to attract the dirt particles in the air. These filters may have electric charge built-in, or else the air moving through the layers of the system creates electric charge. They may cost from around $20 to over $100 each. These filters only need to be changed once a year.

Sometimes people with allergies may consider the usage of an electronic air cleaner in the air conditioner, which works on the same principle as that of electrostatic filter. However, it is far more effective than electrostatic filter and does not hinder the flow of air inside the air conditioning system. Whatever type of air conditioner filter you use, it is advisable to check the cleanliness of the coils of the filter by a contractor at least once in a month.

Perhaps the most important measure that will ensure the efficiency of an air conditioner is frequent replace of its filters. One should change the air conditioner's filter regularly, as clogged, dirty filters block normal air flow and reduce the system's efficiency significantly by impairing the coils' heat-absorbing capacity.

Air Filters Info provides detailed information on home, car, electronic, and HEPA air filters, as well as air conditioner filters and air filter manufacturers. Air Filters Info is the sister site of Air Purifiers Web.

How to Get your Air Conditioner ready for Next years Heat

Jack Frost is nipping at our nose and Santa Clause has just left. The eastern seaboard has just received their third blizzard for a total of over 125 cm (56 inches) of snow in one week. So, who in their right mind would be thinking about window air conditioners at this time of year?

Call me crazy, but I am.

It is a good time of year to start this project. Firstly, it keeps ones mind sharp for the coming spring. Plus, it allows you to try out those new tools you got for Christmas. Mainly though, it is a good winter project because by the time spring arrives you will be too busy to think about this job.

Very little is required to clean a window air conditioner, except lots of patience. If patience is something you lack then it is a job you should turn over to the local appliance serviceman.

Tools ----------------------
Tin can or container (old muffin tin works well also)
Vacuum cleaner
Long handled brush (an old toilet brush works well)
Oil can
Rags
De-greaser or spray detergent
Selection of screwdrivers (Philips, Flat bladed, 1/4" socket head)
Fin tool (optional)
New filter (if disposable type)

Lets get started -----------

1. Start by removing the filter from the front grille. If it is a disposable type simply replace it with a new one. Other types are made in a plastic frame and can be cleaned and reused. To clean a reusable type lay it flat in the sink and sprinkle surface with laundry detergent. Then cover with about one inch of hot water. Just enough so the filter is submerged. Soak for 15 minutes. Remove from water and rinse with warm water. Hang up to dry while proceeding to next step.

2. Next, remove the front grille from the main body of the air conditioner. They usually pivot on 2 spring clips at the bottom. It is usually removed by pulling the grille gently forward while pushing it down at the same time. If there is resistance then look for hidden screws. Look near the top edge of the grille or behind the control knob door. Once removed place the grille aside until later.
3. Carefully remove metal cover of air conditioner to expose inner workings. Once all the screws are removed lift the cover straight up. Do not let it hit the other parts as it can have sharp edges. This is where the old can comes in handy (ice cube container or muffin tin works well also). Use it to keep track of all the screws you will be removing. An air conditioner will often use a number of different types and sizes of screws. Segregate them from each other or confusion will result when we start reassembly.

4. Check the fan motor for any oil holes or oil plugs. If the motor has oil plugs they are usually rubber. Use caution when removing because the rubber may have become brittle. Often they will break off in the oil holes resulting in a blockage. If this occurs try to remove the broken plug by using a pin of the tip of a small screwdriver.
Once the fan motor oil holes are exposed add a few drops of oil to each end of the motor body. Use a general purpose (3in1) oil or clean motor oil. A #30 oil is sufficient.
The natural tendency is to over-oil. Too much lubrication is as bad as not enough. Therefore only 3 or 4 drops on both ends of the motor body is sufficient. Add the oil slowly, pausing a few seconds between each drop. If you add it too quickly over-lubrication will result.

5. Use the brush to remove surface dust and dirt from the evaporator (front fins). Use only an up and down motion. Do not go side to side or allow the fins to be bent over. The fins are very soft aluminum and can be damaged easily.
Once surface dirt is removed, spray with de-greaser or cleaner. There is a good product on the market called HVAC cleaner. As the name implies it is meant for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioner coil cleaning. If this is not available the Fantastic Spray cleaner used in kitchens and bathrooms works quite well.
Let stand about 15 minutes or as per instructions on de-greaser can. This will allow cleaner to loosen any hidden dirt. Remove dirt and excess cleaner by slowly pouring warm water into fins. Do not allow the water to enter any electrical connections or components that may be near the coil. As an added precaution cover the motor with one of the cloth rags. to protect it from the water.
Do not use any form of high pressure air or water because this can drive dirt farther into fins. Also, use extreme caution as these coils are filled with high pressure refrigerant.

6. Straighten any bent fins. Use a fin comb if available. If no fin comb then use something soft such as a Popsicle stick. Straightening the fins will increase the efficiency of the air flow through the coils. This adds to the overall cooling effect produced by the air conditioner.

7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 for the condenser (rear fins) coil. A plastic cowling usually surrounds the condenser fins. If so, check the top edge to see if it will lift or open. If it opens this will allow easier access to the condenser fins. Again use caution because the condenser coil is also filled with high pressure refrigerant.

8. Wipe any dirt buildup from both fan blades using a soft rag. Do not bend blades. This would cause a vibration that would harm the motor.

9. Vacuum all surfaces including front and back of grille assembly. Do not forget to vacuum underside of metal air conditioner cover. If the cover contains air holes clean them thoroughly. If necessary use a damp rag.

10. Drain any water left in the base and allow it to dry for few hours.

When completely dry plug in air conditioner and test operation. If everything appears okay unplug and reassemble.

Once reassembly is complete, retest operation to ensure replacing the cover has not affected anything. Adding the cover will tend to twist the frame and can cause interior parts to move out of alignment. This can cause the fan to become noisy. To correct for this problem remove the cover and realign to the main body of the air conditioner. Reinstall the cover and test for noises every time 2 or 3 additional screws are added to the cover.

Finally, cover air conditioner with plastic wrap or an old blanket. Store in a warm dry area. Raise it from floor slightly by placing onto a couple of pieces of wood. This will protect the floor from the metal edges of the air conditioner, and also protect the air conditioner from moisture.

Youre Finished ------------

Repeat this simple procedure every year. If you do, the machine will be ready for many more years of dependable service.

Addendum -------------------

The filter inside the front grille should be removed and cleaned (as in step 1) every month throughout the cooling season. If you are a smoker it should be cleaned every week.

Although the above procedure is for a window air conditioner, the same basic method is used to clean a central air system. Due to additional dangers inherent in the central air conditioner systems, they should be cleaned only by a professional service company.


Jack Frost is nipping at our nose and Santa Clause has just left. The eastern seaboard has just received their third blizzard for a total of over 125 cm (56 inches) of snow in one week. So, who in their right mind would be thinking about window air conditioners at this time of year?

Call me crazy, but I am.

It is a good time of year to start this project. Firstly, it keeps ones mind sharp for the coming spring. Plus, it allows you to try out those new tools you got for Christmas. Mainly though, it is a good winter project because by the time spring arrives you will be too busy to think about this job.

Very little is required to clean a window air conditioner, except lots of patience. If patience is something you lack then it is a job you should turn over to the local appliance serviceman.

Tools ----------------------
Tin can or container (old muffin tin works well also)
Vacuum cleaner
Long handled brush (an old toilet brush works well)
Oil can
Rags
De-greaser or spray detergent
Selection of screwdrivers (Philips, Flat bladed, 1/4" socket head)
Fin tool (optional)
New filter (if disposable type)

Lets get started -----------

1. Start by removing the filter from the front grille. If it is a disposable type simply replace it with a new one. Other types are made in a plastic frame and can be cleaned and reused. To clean a reusable type lay it flat in the sink and sprinkle surface with laundry detergent. Then cover with about one inch of hot water. Just enough so the filter is submerged. Soak for 15 minutes. Remove from water and rinse with warm water. Hang up to dry while proceeding to next step.

2. Next, remove the front grille from the main body of the air conditioner. They usually pivot on 2 spring clips at the bottom. It is usually removed by pulling the grille gently forward while pushing it down at the same time. If there is resistance then look for hidden screws. Look near the top edge of the grille or behind the control knob door. Once removed place the grille aside until later.
3. Carefully remove metal cover of air conditioner to expose inner workings. Once all the screws are removed lift the cover straight up. Do not let it hit the other parts as it can have sharp edges. This is where the old can comes in handy (ice cube container or muffin tin works well also). Use it to keep track of all the screws you will be removing. An air conditioner will often use a number of different types and sizes of screws. Segregate them from each other or confusion will result when we start reassembly.

4. Check the fan motor for any oil holes or oil plugs. If the motor has oil plugs they are usually rubber. Use caution when removing because the rubber may have become brittle. Often they will break off in the oil holes resulting in a blockage. If this occurs try to remove the broken plug by using a pin of the tip of a small screwdriver.
Once the fan motor oil holes are exposed add a few drops of oil to each end of the motor body. Use a general purpose (3in1) oil or clean motor oil. A #30 oil is sufficient.
The natural tendency is to over-oil. Too much lubrication is as bad as not enough. Therefore only 3 or 4 drops on both ends of the motor body is sufficient. Add the oil slowly, pausing a few seconds between each drop. If you add it too quickly over-lubrication will result.

5. Use the brush to remove surface dust and dirt from the evaporator (front fins). Use only an up and down motion. Do not go side to side or allow the fins to be bent over. The fins are very soft aluminum and can be damaged easily.
Once surface dirt is removed, spray with de-greaser or cleaner. There is a good product on the market called HVAC cleaner. As the name implies it is meant for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioner coil cleaning. If this is not available the Fantastic Spray cleaner used in kitchens and bathrooms works quite well.
Let stand about 15 minutes or as per instructions on de-greaser can. This will allow cleaner to loosen any hidden dirt. Remove dirt and excess cleaner by slowly pouring warm water into fins. Do not allow the water to enter any electrical connections or components that may be near the coil. As an added precaution cover the motor with one of the cloth rags. to protect it from the water.
Do not use any form of high pressure air or water because this can drive dirt farther into fins. Also, use extreme caution as these coils are filled with high pressure refrigerant.

6. Straighten any bent fins. Use a fin comb if available. If no fin comb then use something soft such as a Popsicle stick. Straightening the fins will increase the efficiency of the air flow through the coils. This adds to the overall cooling effect produced by the air conditioner.

7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 for the condenser (rear fins) coil. A plastic cowling usually surrounds the condenser fins. If so, check the top edge to see if it will lift or open. If it opens this will allow easier access to the condenser fins. Again use caution because the condenser coil is also filled with high pressure refrigerant.

8. Wipe any dirt buildup from both fan blades using a soft rag. Do not bend blades. This would cause a vibration that would harm the motor.

9. Vacuum all surfaces including front and back of grille assembly. Do not forget to vacuum underside of metal air conditioner cover. If the cover contains air holes clean them thoroughly. If necessary use a damp rag.

10. Drain any water left in the base and allow it to dry for few hours.

When completely dry plug in air conditioner and test operation. If everything appears okay unplug and reassemble.

Once reassembly is complete, retest operation to ensure replacing the cover has not affected anything. Adding the cover will tend to twist the frame and can cause interior parts to move out of alignment. This can cause the fan to become noisy. To correct for this problem remove the cover and realign to the main body of the air conditioner. Reinstall the cover and test for noises every time 2 or 3 additional screws are added to the cover.

Finally, cover air conditioner with plastic wrap or an old blanket. Store in a warm dry area. Raise it from floor slightly by placing onto a couple of pieces of wood. This will protect the floor from the metal edges of the air conditioner, and also protect the air conditioner from moisture.

Youre Finished ------------

Repeat this simple procedure every year. If you do, the machine will be ready for many more years of dependable service.

Addendum -------------------

The filter inside the front grille should be removed and cleaned (as in step 1) every month throughout the cooling season. If you are a smoker it should be cleaned every week.

Although the above procedure is for a window air conditioner, the same basic method is used to clean a central air system. Due to additional dangers inherent in the central air conditioner systems, they should be cleaned only by a professional service company.
Donald Grummett is an appliance service manager in Ottawa, Canada. In the trade over 30 years as both a technician, business owner, and technical trainer. For more information about appliances including FAQ, Stain guide, Recycling, and Newsletter visit http://www.mgservices.ca

Do You Know How Important Your Air Conditioner Filter Is?

When most people think about an air conditioner filter, it is in terms of how efficient they are and how much dust they will stop. These are important things and should be considered when replacing or upgrading your air conditioner filter.

There is another very important job that your air conditioner filter does. It helps to keep dust from collecting on the evaporator coil of your air conditioning system. The evaporator is located inside the air handler and is one of the four main components of any air conditioning system. The air filter is usually located somewhere just before the evaporator coil.

Everyone knows that any dust that passes through the filter ends up back in your living space and can be very irritating to allergy sufferers and anyone else who is sensitive to dust and airborne contaminants.

What most people dont realize is that your air conditioner filter also serves another important purpose. It also prevents the evaporator coil from becoming plugged with dust and reducing the efficiency of the equipment.

This evaporator coil is constructed very similar to the radiator in a car. Like your car radiator, it will not be able to do its job without proper airflow. I am comparing the evaporator coil to a car radiator because most of us know what a radiator looks like, but an evaporator coil works to cool air as it passes through.

Over time dust collects between the fins of the evaporator coil and can even form a layer on the surface of the evaporator coil fins (like a blanket). This happens over a period of time and can take months and even years to happen.

If your air conditioner develops a problem with ice build up and it was never a problem in the past, there are two probable causes. The evaporator coil is becoming dirty and causing low operating pressures, or you are not changing your air filter often enough.

If you have your air conditioner serviced regularly, the technician should check the coil condition and advise you when it needs to be cleaned. As airflow through the evaporator coil becomes more and more restricted the equipment efficiency begins to decline. This can even cause equipment failure and lead to expensive repairs.

So, cleaner air is not the only benefit you will get from using an efficient air conditioner filter. You will also save money because your air conditioning equipment will perform at a higher efficiency and you will reduce service calls.

Donald Munn has been in the air conditioning, ventilation and heating industry for twenty years and shares his experience and insight into furnace filter selection, performance and care at www.furnacefiltercare.com