Air conditioner Maintenance Tips

Warning : Take precautions when you check aircon's. I will not be held responsible for electric shock and damages arising to your life or properties.

After 2 years of faithful service our 1T estrella needs some attention. I dont believe in AMC especially for premium model Aircon's. Just 1.5 months before service person from carrier visited our home for servicing. I was not at home but i am really surprised warranty is for 1 year and our ac is fast approaching 2years. He just cleaned the fins (evaporator and condenser) unit and gave a visiting card telling that he can service A/C lower cost compared to carrier corporation. We didnt use much as the climate is already cold. Last week i have noticed very poor air circulation i opened the filter at 1 AM sleepy night. To my surprise there is a thin layer of ice formation in the cooling coil. I thought this could be clogged dirt between the fins results poor heat transfer. Next day i cleaned the fins (IDU and ODU) with mild detergent. It was fine next day but there is intermediate crackle sound.

This saturday @ 1 AM poor air circulation and less cooling opened the grill and ice has formed. I knew something was wrong with the unit. Checked the ODU No hum in the compressor motor but noticed rapid ice formation in the delivery port and rather cold suction port. I have temperature probe and it shows -2.5C. Similarly in the indoor unit the first cooling coil shows -3.5 C and rest 20C this causes ice formation. Normal temp is between 8-10 C.

I called my friend in Bangalore he is a aircon tech. He told me there is very less gas in the system causes ice formation. This can be deliberately done by previous tech. In the suction valve i have noticed oil stains which confirms gas leaked in this area.

The cost can be anywhere between 1.5k to 2.5k but the cost can increase if leak down test is performed in the system. Also it is not absolutely necessary to flush all the remnant gases. Clueless owners were taken for a ride to flush all the gases and recharge with fresh one unless if you are performing leak down test. While recharging fresh gas it is always recommended to replace the capillary filter it cost 80 bucks. Also R22a cost Rs 500-550 per kg and labour charge of Rs300.

Central Air Conditioning Troubleshooting & Repair Guide: How to Inspect, Diagnose, & Repair Central Air Conditioning: Defects in A/C compressors, air handlers, duct work, and controls

This has lots of information and every aircon owner must know to avoid ac mech tricks to cheat customers. I have to spend around 1.5K for checking leaks and re-charging gas ofcourse i requested him to come down to chennai. Planning to do Indoor unit over haul and also fixing some clamps for ODU.

Practically A/C's are sealed units and doesnot require gas charge unless there is some leak or cut open if there is any block in the tubes

Be safe and never trust mechs. Summer is fast approaching and mechs do use such tricks to mint money from clueless customers.

How to read specification tag.

Out Door Unit(ODU) takes almost 95% of power. So we need to make sure it runs within specifications to save money on power bill.

From Estrella 1 ton. I took only main specification

hcfc R22 ==> Type of refrigerant

1.270 kw ==> Power consumption during the start of the compressor

6.75 A ===> Starting current. This can be checked using clamp meter

1.05 kg ==> Refrigerant quantity by weight

2.16/0.59 Mpa ==> maximum allowable pressure in Delivery and suction(313/85.5 psi) I am not sure whether its working pressure or max allowable pressure.

5.0 A ==> Running current

1.09 Kw ==> Actual power consumption :D 1090 watts.

Technical Tips

How to check whether gas has been leaked or not:

This is not fool proof only pressure meter fitted in the suction end can find it accurately.

Check the suction and delivery pipes especially over the valves and pipe joints for oil stains. If there any it indicates gas+ oil has been leaked from that area.

Another method is the soap bubble test

Turn on the aircon and wait for the compressor start. If you hear screeching noise subsides slowly may indicate less oil inside the compressor crank and bearings.

Compressor Noise

If you hear hum in the compressor please check the following:

Hum indicates weakening of the compressor

1. Check the voltage. Low voltage can be a cause for hum

2. Weak motor capacitor may introduce hum. Even the mech suggest to replace the compressor try this first. This can save couple of grands

3. Weak motor coil. No way to go replace with better compressor or buy a new aircon

Aircon got repaired and as described its very low in refrigerant. The suction pressure was only 10 psi :S . This is due to the leaky valve in the suction side. Got fixed it promptly. System took 2 Kg of R22 which includes "Leak test". The pressure kept at 65psi in the suction side. I would like to suggest important measures during fresh installation.

1. Never fit new aircon in the late evenings. we got installed by 7:00 pm and it was really dark. Perfect time to hide shabby work done by the mechs.

2. Dont let them allow to install A/C without your presence. Always watch them what they are doing.

3. Always perform a leak test right after A/C installation.( This was not done and its a costly mistake).

4. Ask them to use Teflon tape when they make gromet joints. It prevents leakage.

5. Delivery pipe (small pipe) should not feel cold when touched. It should be in normal temperature. If its colder or with thin layer of ice its sure the system has less refrigerant.

6.The indoor unit should not hear any "crackle" sound. This also indicates it has less gas. This is due to the formation of ICE in the grill.

7. If you have temperature probe place in front of the air-flow. The actual value should be less than 10C. Previous mech falsely told as less than 15C. After the refill the grill temp is 6.8C - 7.4 C :hap2: perfect.

8. Compressor noise has been reduced drastically once coolant was loaded from "Grrrrrrrrr" to 'mmmmmmmm'.

When he opened the ODU he told the compressor is Made in Japan :hap2:

I will post detailed write up of maintainence care in couple of days

I just came through wonderful ppt presentation. It answers most of our queries on air conditioning.

http://www.energymanagertraining.com/Presentations/SEEM6_7October2005/01SEEMWorkshop/SEEM9.pdf

Very important point from the ppt: Improper gas pressure will affect cooling capacity.

I have also planning to order Gulf neutralizer spray to get rid of mold formation in cooling coil. Cost Rs 350 including shipping

Neutralizer - Air Conditioner Cleaner - Rs350 : Welcome to UnitedGraphix.com, Currently under testing

Also chemicals from carrier. I am not sure where to purchase and pricing. I am keenly interested on Condenser cleaner- non acid and Fin protectant. Estrella model does not have any kinda coating and we are located near sea shore.

Welcome to CarrierAirConditions

Aircon Maintenance tips

1. Always clean the coils before summer to get maximum efficiency.

2. Clean the filters atleast once in 2 weeks. The will help to attain max efficiency in peak summers.

3. User Fan only mode for 5 mins before switching off aircon. This will prevent mold formation.

4. I have not tested yet. Put chlorine tablets in the collection tray. This will prevent Algae formation which results in bad smelling a/c. Drop 1 or 2 tabs for every 10 to 15 days.

Reqd Tool sets

Image026.jpg


Pril is far better than soap powder. It really cleans well. Of course you need some 2inch nylon brush as shown.

Procedure

Remove the Indoor unit covers and filters. Wash well with pril and water

Image029.jpg


Do not forcefully remove the covers. Its just plastic. If you dont know what you are doing this is not for you

Remove the water by using micro fiber cloth or best baniyan cloth :hap2:

Clean the filters with water.

If you have special filter like bacterial filter do not wash in water just brush off to clean the dust

Caution: Fins are very sharp if you are not careful it will cut your fingers. Try not to bend the fins

Image030.jpg


Pour 2 buckets of water over the fins then pour some dishwash liquid over the fins.

Clean the fins with the soft nylon brush. The movement should be in line with fins alignment.

After thorough cleaning use adequate water to remove the soap (approx 2 buckets)

Turn on the A/C in the fan mode to remove all the water from the coil. Use for atleast 10 mins.

Put back the cover and filter.

Image032.jpg


Turn on the A/C and check. Its time for....

Results

Note: I have not verified the accuracy of the meter. Test conducted at 5 PM in Chennai

Outside temperature (Hall)

Image035.jpg


Result after 5 mins of running thermostat kept at 17C

Grill Temperature

Image033.jpg


Reading after approx 10 mins of running

Grill temp

Image036.jpg


Ambient temp Room

Image034.jpg


Reading after approx 20 mins of running

Grill temp

Image040.jpg


Noise dB 1 meter approx from unit

Full speed

Image039.jpg


Auto mode

Image037.jpg


Silent Mode

Image038.jpg


Relative Humidity %RH

After 25 mins of run

Image041.jpg


Humidity outside :(

Image043.jpg


I have not cleaned the ODU. I may do it tomorrow
 
Re: Beware of A/C technicians

Mods: plz mark this as sticky till summer. It will help lot of A/c owners. Summer is fast approaching. I will update with A/C maintainance tips and other fraud activities by service person
 
Specification tag

Warning : Take precautions when you check aircon's. I will not be held responsible for electric shock and damages arising to your life or properties.

How to read specification tag.

Out Door Unit(ODU) takes almost 95% of power. So we need to make sure it runs within specifications to save money on power bill.

From Estrella 1 ton. I took only main specification

hcfc R22 ==> Type of refrigerant

1.270 kw ==> Power consumption during the start of the compressor

6.75 A ===> Starting current. This can be checked using clamp meter

1.05 kg ==> Refrigerant quantity by weight

2.16/0.59 Mpa ==> maximum allowable pressure in Delivery and suction(313/85.5 psi) I am not sure whether its working pressure or max allowable pressure.

5.0 A ==> Running current

1.09 Kw ==> Actual power consumption :D 1090 watts.

Technical Tips

How to check whether gas has been leaked or not:

This is not fool proof only pressure meter fitted in the suction end can find it accurately.

Check the suction and delivery pipes especially over the valves and pipe joints for oil stains. If there any it indicates gas+ oil has been leaked from that area.

Turn on the aircon and wait for the compressor start. If you hear screeching noise subsides slowly may indicate less oil inside the compressor crank and bearings.

Compressor Noise

If you hear hum in the compressor please check the following:

Hum indicates weakening of the compressor

1. Check the voltage. Low voltage can be a cause for hum

2. Weak motor capacitor may introduce hum. Even the mech suggest to replace the compressor try this first. This can save couple of grands

3. Weak motor coil. No way to go replace with better compressor or buy a new aircon
 
Re: Beware of A/C technicians

Aircon got repaired and as described its very low in refrigerant. The suction pressure was only 10 psi :S . This is due to the leaky valve in the suction side. Got fixed it promptly. System took 2 Kg of R22 pressure at 65psi in the suction side. I would like to suggest important measures during fresh installation.

1. Never fit new aircon in the late evenings. we got installed by 7:00 pm and it was really dark. Perfect time to hide shabby work done by the mechs.

2. Dont let them allow to install A/C without your presence. Always watch them what they are doing.

3. Always perform a leak test right after A/C installation.( This was not done and its a costly mistake).

4. Ask them to use Teflon tape when they make gromet joints. It prevents leakage.

5. Delivery pipe (small pipe) should not feel cold when touched. It should be in normal temperature. If its colder or with thin layer of ice its sure the system has less refrigerant.

6.The indoor unit should not hear any "crackle" sound. This also indicates it has less gas. This is due to the formation of ICE in the grill.

7. If you have temperature probe place in front of the air-flow. The actual value should be less than 10C. Previous mech falsely told as less than 15C. After the refill the grill temp is 6.8C - 7.4 C :hap2: perfect.

8. Compressor noise has been reduced drastically once coolant was loaded from "Grrrrrrrrr" to 'mmmmmmm'.

9. When he opened the ODU he told the compressor is Made in Japan :hap2:

I will post detailed write up of maintainence care in couple of days

Mod: Can you please rename this thread to something like to " Air conditioner Maintainence Tips"
 
I just came through wonderful ppt presentation. It answers most of our queries on air conditioning.

http://www.energymanagertraining.com/Presentations/SEEM6_7October2005/01SEEMWorkshop/SEEM9.pdf

Very important point from the ppt: Improper gas pressure will affect cooling capacity.

I have also planning to order Gulf neutralizer spray to get rid of mold formation in cooling coil. Cost Rs 350 including shipping

Neutralizer - Air Conditioner Cleaner - Rs350 : Welcome to UnitedGraphix.com, Currently under testing

Also chemicals from carrier. I am not sure where to purchase and pricing. I am keenly interested on Condenser cleaner- non acid and Fin protectant. Estrella model does not have any kinda coating and we are located near sea shore.

Welcome to CarrierAirConditions
 
Crazy_Eddy said:
Nice writeup!

Any idea if there are any A/Cs which are specifically resistant to corrosion?

Can you mention what kind of corrosion you are referring to. Places near by to industries have high caustic content. Places like chennai have high humidity. All A/C's have basic protection like galvanized steel body, powder coated paint job which can last for years.

Most of the damages occur in the IDU. Near the sides of the "C" bend there should not be any sweating. This will cause rust on the sides. This is due to low gas in the system. This has been told by my friend, water condensation must only happen in the fins.

If you still need some protection you can visit carrier website they offer some chemical to clean and protect your A/C fins. you can do-it yourself
 
I guess its due to humidity. There is a sort of drainage stream running nearby as well. Even the A/C tech that had a look at it said he's seen similar corrosion happening at places near the cooum river.

The funny thing is, we had gotten an authorised Carrier centre to carry out a 'chemical' bath for the A/C just a few months earlier.
 
Crazy_Eddy said:
I guess its due to humidity. There is a sort of drainage stream running nearby as well. Even the A/C tech that had a look at it said he's seen similar corrosion happening at places near the cooum river.

The funny thing is, we had gotten an authorised Carrier centre to carry out a 'chemical' bath for the A/C just a few months earlier.

Oh that looks something toxic gas :) . which Carrier model you have? Some models have blue fin coating
 
Aircon Maintenance tips

1. Always clean the coils before summer to get maximum efficiency.

2. Clean the filters atleast once in 2 weeks. The will help to attain max efficiency in peak summers.

3. User Fan only mode for 5 mins before switching off aircon. This will prevent mold formation.

4. I have not tested yet. Put chlorine tablets in the collection tray. This will prevent Algae formation which results in bad smelling a/c. Drop 1 or 2 tabs for every 10 to 15 days.

Reqd Tool sets

Image026.jpg


Pril is far better than soap powder. It really cleans well. Of course you need some 2inch nylon brush as shown.

Procedure

Remove the Indoor unit covers and filters. Wash well with pril and water

Image029.jpg


Do not forcefully remove the covers. Its just plastic. If you dont know what you are doing this is not for you

Remove the water by using micro fiber cloth or best baniyan cloth :hap2:

Clean the filters with water.

If you have special filter like bacterial filter do not wash in water just brush off to clean the dust

Caution: Fins are very sharp if you are not careful it will cut your fingers. Try not to bend the fins

Image030.jpg


Pour 2 buckets of water over the fins then pour some dishwash liquid over the fins.

Clean the fins with the soft nylon brush. The movement should be in line with fins alignment.

After thorough cleaning use adequate water to remove the soap (approx 2 buckets)

Turn on the A/C in the fan mode to remove all the water from the coil. Use for atleast 10 mins.

Put back the cover and filter.

Image032.jpg


Turn on the A/C and check. Its time for....

Results

Note: I have not verified the accuracy of the meter. Test conducted at 5 PM in Chennai

Outside temperature (Hall)

Image035.jpg


Result after 5 mins of running thermostat kept at 17C

Grill Temperature

Image033.jpg


Reading after approx 10 mins of running

Grill temp

Image036.jpg


Ambient temp Room

Image034.jpg


Reading after approx 20 mins of running

Grill temp

Image040.jpg


Noise dB 1 meter approx from unit

Full speed

Image039.jpg


Auto mode

Image037.jpg


Silent Mode

Image038.jpg


Relative Humidity %RH

After 25 mins of run

Image041.jpg


Humidity outside :(

Image043.jpg


I have not cleaned the ODU. I may do it tomorrow
 
Very good thread Vijay :clap: Where can we get the measurement meter similar to yours? Available in Chennai?

I am new to Acs. Can we put water and clean the indoor unit as per your toturial or we should only wipe it with a wet cloth? Waiting for your tutorial about cleaning the outdoor unit. I have seen Samsung service people cleaning the outdoor unit but they just wipe the unit and use a brush to clean those meshes and goes away :( Thanks in advance.
 
Thanks so much vijay for such detailed explanation...
btw which Mutli-meter is that, please chare the details like company name etc will be very useful for us...
 
Too good thread Vijay

Could you please tell what precaution can be taken when AC is directly exposed to sun light for almost 8 hours ? Is it good to cover it with cloth/plastic ?
 
accharu said:
Very good thread Vijay :clap: Where can we get the measurement meter similar to yours? Available in Chennai?

I am new to Acs. Can we put water and clean the indoor unit as per your toturial or we should only wipe it with a wet cloth? Waiting for your tutorial about cleaning the outdoor unit. I have seen Samsung service people cleaning the outdoor unit but they just wipe the unit and use a brush to clean those meshes and goes away :( Thanks in advance.

Yes its available in Ritchie street for Rs 3500. I got it on ebay auction (second hand) for Rs1100.
Yes you can clean with water no issues. Use mug for Indoor and be careful it does not spill over electronic circuit. You can use hose pipe to clean the ODU. It is weather proof

setuniket said:
Thanks so much vijay for such detailed explanation...
btw which Mutli-meter is that, please chare the details like company name etc will be very useful for us...

The multi-meter name is Vartech 2709 5 in 1 multimeter. There is also another brand Mastech 2709. The quality of the meter is very good and quite useful. It has lux meter, dB meter, Humidity, Temperature, Multimeter functions.

Praks said:
Too good thread Vijay

Could you please tell what precaution can be taken when AC is directly exposed to sun light for almost 8 hours ? Is it good to cover it with cloth/plastic ?

Premature failure will happen to the compressor if its working in direct sunlight. Fix a shade to protect from sunlight
 
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