When it comes to air conditioning, most people’s thoughts immediately turn to summer days when the respite from a well-functioning AC unit is nothing short of relief. However, maintaining your air conditioning system is often overlooked as a summer-exclusive task, which isn’t the case. Winter air conditioning maintenance is just as important, if not more so, for the longevity and efficiency of your AC system.

As experts in providing bottled gas nationwide, we’re stocked with a range of high-quality gases suited for various aspects of AC maintenance. So here, we’ll explore how one gas, in particular, is an excellent choice for AC maintenance.

The Importance of Winter AC Maintenance

Air conditioning systems are often out of sight out of mind during the wintertime. However, many people aren’t aware that neglecting these systems in the cooler seasons can cause a significant decrease in their overall efficiency and lifespan. Any deterioration from winter will directly impact how your system functions in the warmer months. For example, extreme cold temperatures can cause frozen pipes, which, if not carefully inspected, could break and split, causing serious damage to your system.

Even if you’re detecting no issues with your AC unit, regular winter maintenance helps to prevent minor problems from escalating into major repairs, averting potential system failures. A poorly maintained system works harder to achieve the desired temperature, leading to higher energy consumption and utility bills. Maintaining your AC system over the winter is an investment in its efficiency, longevity, and your own comfort. You may also find that if you require specialist help for your maintenance, contractors may be cheaper in the winter because it’s typically quieter for them.

Preventive Maintenance of Air Conditioning Systems

Being proactive about your air conditioner’s health will save significant problems and expenses. As part of your preventive maintenance routine, here are some key steps to keep your air conditioning system in good condition:

Regular Cleaning or Replacing of AC Filters

One crucial and simplest maintenance task is cleaning or replacing air conditioner filters. Clogged or dirty filters obstruct normal airflow and significantly reduce a system’s efficiency. Clean filters can help lower your AC unit’s energy consumption from 5% to 15%.

Examination of Coils for Dust or Debris

Over time, the evaporator and condenser coils collect dirt. This dirt reduces airflow and insulates the coil, hindering its ability to absorb heat. To prevent such problems, check your coils yearly and clean them as necessary.

Checking Levels of Refrigerant

The refrigerant level in your AC system also plays a part in its performance. Too much or too little refrigerant will make your system less efficient, increasing energy costs and reducing the life of the equipment.

Purging the System

“Purging” is clearing an AC unit’s internal lines and hoses. This is usually done with the assistance of high-quality nitrogen cylinders and offers the best results for your AC.

Investigate Any Leaks

To detect leaks, pressurise your system with nitrogen, enabling technicians to identify and locate leaks, indicated by a hissing sound or visible signs, when using tools like bubble solutions or electronic leak detectors. Alternatively, by keeping the system pressurised, you can measure the pressure loss after 24 hours to see if there are any issues.

Conducting these preventive measures throughout the winter months helps your AC system operate at its most efficient level all year round, particularly in the summer months when usage is higher.

Why Nitrogen is an Excellent Choice for AC Maintenance

Nitrogen, as an inert gas, plays an essential role in maintaining the health of your air conditioning unit. Its properties and benefits make it the ideal entity to combat oxidation, contamination, and moisture, the key enemies of your AC system’s efficiency and longevity.

Here’s why nitrogen is a superior choice for your AC maintenance needs:

1. Environmentally Friendly: Unlike other gases, such as freon, nitrogen doesn’t harm the environment as it lacks chlorine, known for its ozone-depleting effects.
2. Non-Reactive Nature: Nitrogen doesn’t support processes like combustion or oxidation detrimental to the air conditioning system. As an inert gas, it ensures no reactions occur with other stored materials and doesn’t carry moisture.
3. Easy Storage and Accessibility: Nitrogen gas cylinders can be stored without hassle due to the gas’s passive properties. Our range of gas cylinders comes in anything from 2L nitrogen bottles to 50L nitrogen cylinders for various applications.
4. Efficiency and Effectiveness: Nitrogen is exceptional at absorbing moisture trapped within the unit, improving your AC system’s efficiency for future operations.
5. Removal of Contaminants: When used to purge your AC system, nitrogen effectively flushes all contaminants, allowing your unit to run without spreading pollution, ensuring a cleaner and healthier ambience.

Using nitrogen for air conditioning maintenance brings many benefits and is essential to ensuring the consistent running of your unit.

Maximising the Lifespan and Efficiency of Your Air Conditioning Unit

To ensure your air conditioning system performs well during high usage seasons and lasts longer, it’s important to take good care of it. Professional servicing is the best way to do this, as it goes beyond basic maintenance and uses specialised tools and knowledge to address complex issues and potential problems. You should arrange for professional servicing of your AC system at least once a year.

Another important part of AC maintenance is ensuring the area around the unit is properly insulated. This helps reduce heat transfer, which means less strain on your AC system and greater efficiency. It’s also crucial to optimise your thermostat settings for both comfort and efficiency. Extreme temperatures can damage your unit and increase energy costs, so finding the right balance is key. Understanding your AC system and practising consistent, proper maintenance is essential for keeping it functioning well and lasting long.

Get the Best From Your AC Unit With Bottle Gases

It’s essential to perform routine maintenance on your AC system during winter to ensure it operates at peak efficiency, save on repair costs, and provide a comfortable environment. Consistent upkeep also extends the lifespan of your unit, making it a smart long-term investment. The crucial aspect of all these is reliable maintenance practices and quality products.

This is where Bottle Gases can assist you. We offer a wide range of gases to help you carry out your AC maintenance procedures effectively. We also have a vast selection of MIG welding gases and TIG welding gases for any essential repairs you may come across during your AC unit maintenance. Whatever your gas needs are, we’re here to help. You can order our bottle gases online, or feel free to get in touch for more contractual needs.