A Guide to Cleaning Your Dryer Vent: Tips and Tools

A clean dryer vent not only helps your dryer operate efficiently but also reduces the risk of a potentially dangerous fire hazard. Lint buildup in the dryer vent is a common problem that many homeowners face, and it’s essential to know how to clean it properly. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to clean your dryer vent, along with various tips and essential tools to make the process safe and effective.

Why Cleaning Your Dryer Vent is Important

Cleaning your dryer vent is crucial for several reasons:

Safety: Lint buildup can become a fire hazard. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, dryer fires are a real threat, causing thousands of fires, injuries, and even deaths annually.
Efficiency: A clogged dryer vent can cause your dryer to work harder, resulting in higher energy bills. By keeping the vent clean, your dryer will operate more efficiently, saving you money in the long run.
Appliance Longevity: A clean dryer vent can extend the lifespan of your dryer. When the vent is blocked, the appliance can overheat, causing premature wear and tear.

Now, let’s dive into the steps and tools you’ll need to clean your dryer vent.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

Before you start cleaning your dryer vent, make sure you have the following tools and materials:

Screwdriver
Vent brush or dryer lint brush
Vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment
Extension rod (if needed)
Safety goggles and gloves
Dust mask

Step 2: Unplug the Dryer

For safety reasons, always unplug the dryer from the electrical outlet or turn off the gas supply if your dryer is gas-powered.

Step 3: Disconnect the Dryer Vent

Using a screwdriver, loosen the clamp that connects the vent hose to the dryer. Gently pull the vent hose off the dryer’s exhaust.

Step 4: Clean the Vent Hose

Attach the vent brush or lint brush to an extension rod if necessary, and carefully feed it into the vent hose. Move the brush back and forth to dislodge lint and debris from the walls of the hose. Repeat this process until the brush comes out clean.

Step 5: Clean the Vent Opening

With the vent hose still disconnected, use the vacuum cleaner’s hose attachment to clean the opening on the back of the dryer. Remove any lint or debris that may have accumulated.

Step 6: Clean the Vent Duct

Next, move to the exterior end of the vent where it exits your home. Using the vent brush or lint brush, feed it into the duct from the outside. Again, move the brush back and forth to dislodge any lint and debris. Be thorough in this step, as it’s where most lint accumulates.

Step 7: Reconnect and Test

Reattach the vent hose to the dryer and secure it with the clamp. Plug in the dryer or turn on the gas supply. Run the dryer for a few minutes to ensure the vent is clear and airflow is unrestricted.

Step 8: Regular Maintenance

To prevent future lint buildup, make it a habit to clean the lint screen after every load of laundry. Additionally, clean your dryer vent at least once a year or more often if you notice reduced drying efficiency.

Regularly cleaning your dryer vent is a simple yet vital task that can keep your home safe, save you money, and extend the life of your dryer. By following these steps and using the recommended tools, you can maintain a clean and safe dryer vent system. Don’t wait until it becomes a problem – take action now to keep your dryer operating at its best while reducing the risk of fire hazards. Your family and wallet will thank you for it.

10 in 1 Klein Dryer Vent Cleaning Kit Vacuum Attachment Kit Stanley Wet/Dry Vacuum

October 30, 2023 0

How to change your garbage disposal

Nothing is worse than a broken garbage disposal. It seems that they break at the most inopportune times. Usually leaving you with a smelly mess in your sink. In this article I will discuss the best ways to repair your garbage disposal problems, and at the end I will explain how to change your garbage disposal with a new one.

There are a variety of problems you may encounter with your garbage disposal.

Sink Won’t Drain:

This is the most common first sign that your garbage disposal isn’t working properly. There’s a few things you will need to check in order to repair the correct item. If you operate the disposal, and it sounds normal. Than you probably have a clog at your P Trap at the bottom of the drain. It is the U looking piece of pipe. A lot of debris gets accumulated at this point in the pipe. Get a small bucket, and place it under the P Trap. Remove the P Trap connections, and ensure the P Trap is clear. If you have a clog farther in the line you can either call a plumber, or read about drain augers in my other article.

Disposal not turning on:

If you activate the disposal, and it doesn’t make a sound. I would check the reset button located on the bottom of the garbage disposal. These reset buttons should reset when clicked in. If it continues to trip, than you probably have an internal short within the disposal. I would recommend replacing the garbage disposal.

Slight hum coming from garbage disposal when activated:

If you hear a slight hum coming from the disposal when activated. You probably have a blade that is stuck. I have found that long screwdrivers can help get the disposal unjammed. You will want to rotate the blade in a circular motion to try to get the blades dislodged from what is jamming it. If the items that are stopping the disposal are metal or glass. Then you will want to remove these items from inside the disposal. If you unplug the electrical cord coming from the garbage disposal to the wall receptacle. You should be fine to put your hand inside the disposal to retrieve the unwanted items. Make sure you test the garbage disposal before sticking your hand in. Ensure the power is off!

How to change your garbage disposal.

Removing old garbage disposal:

Once you unplug the electrical cord coming from the bottom of the disposal you have successfully disconnected the electrical. Next step is to remove the piping coming from the side of the disposal. Sometime it uses 2 screws with a O ring behind a metal plate, and sometimes they are threaded in. Remove the piping connections so the only connection is the top part of the disposal. The basket connects the disposal to the bottom of the sink. Most garbage disposals will drop off the basket once rotated. Be ready to catch the disposal when doing this.

Installing new garbage disposal:

Depending on the replacement garbage disposal you picked. You may need to replace the basket that connects the disposal with the sink. If you replace this item make sure you clean the sink completely of the old plumber’s putty that was used. Apply a new ring of plumber’s putty around the basket where it connects to the sink. This will ensure it is water tight. Once the basket is attached you can see if you need to attach the power cord to the bottom of the disposal. If the power cord is missing. You can remove the power cord from the old disposal. It is usually attached with wire nuts underneath the metal plate. Reattach the power cord to the new disposal underneath the metal plate with wire nuts.

Dishwasher Hose:

If you have a dishwasher hose attached. Make sure you knock out the plastic stopper inside the tube where the dishwasher hose attaches to the the garbage disposal. You can do this with a screwdriver and hammer. Take out the plastic piece from inside the disposal after you dislocated it from the tube. They put they plastic plugs in there if you don’t have a dishwasher installed.

Next you will need to reattach the disposal to the basket that connected to the bottom of the sink. Make sure you attach the disposal in the proper direction of the piping. Reattach the piping to the p trap, and ensure all connections are snug to prevent water leaks. Reattach the dishwasher hose. Make sure you direct the dishwasher hose up to create an air gap. The best way to describe this is to direct the hose the opposite way of the P Trap. An air gap in the dishwasher hose is crucial to prevent garbage disposal water to from draining into the dishwasher hose. This will cause unexpected water to be in your dishwasher even when not using it.

Test it:

Once everything is reattached and snug. Turn on the sink to run some water through the pipes to ensure the pipes are all water tight. Reattach the electrical cord of the garbage disposal to the electrical receptacle that controls it. Turn on the disposal to ensure it is running properly.

Refer to the installation manuals for all installation directions if they differ from what I have been telling you. My goal is to help you save a few dollars while being a homeowner.

Badger Garbage Disposal InSinkErator Garbage Disposal Moen GX50C Prep Series Chooba Garbage Disposal 3/4HP Waste King Garbage Disposal Moen EXL100C EX Chef Series 1 HP 2-Piece 12” Long Slotted and Phillips Screwdriver Set 3 lb Dead Blow Hammer AquaPlumb Plumbers Putty

September 24, 2022 0

How to flush a water heater

Many people are not aware that there is preventative maintenance involved when it comes to water heaters. In this article I will discuss how to flush a water heater. It is important to do this at least once a year to help extend the life of your water heater. Flushing a water heater will help remove the sediment that builds up in in the bottom of the tanks. It is important to know that water heaters were designed to be housed indoors. Although I have seen a few water heaters mounted outside over the years, and it’s not recommended by any manufacturers. They usually are not covered by warranty if they are installed outdoors. Most water heaters will leak enough to destroy the burner. Some people opt to have a drain pain under the water heater to help catch that water that might rust through or leak. Just be warned that a filled water heater contains a lot of water. A little tray will not be able to contain everything if the whole water heater ruptured. An aftermarket water alarm is a handy device that will alert you if it becomes wet. They can be placed inside the drain pan to help monitor if the water heater were to start leaking.

In order to properly flush a water heater. You will need to turn off the heat source. That means you will need to turn off the gas valve or turn off the breaker if it is electric. Your water heater will ruin if you don’t turn it off before emptying it. Next step is to turn off the water fill valve on the inlet pipe. If you don’t have a shut off valve on the water inlet. Then you will need to locate a water main valve that feeds that area or the entire building. You will need to attach a garden hose to the bottom of the water tank. Make sure your hose has the proper seal to prevent leaks and is adequate in length. Direct the hose to a location that will not damage from rusty water and sediment. Open the valve on top of the hose with a screwdriver or pair of pliers.

Once the water heater has emptied. You can close the hose valve, and open the water inlet valve again. Once the water heater is filled again. Then you can light the pilot light, and let water heater resume it’s normal job. Most gas water heaters are difficult to relight once the pilot light is extinguished. It usually takes a few minutes to relight the to pilot light. If you can’t get the water heater back to normal operation or smell gas then you should stop immediately and contact a professional to assist you. I hope this article has helped explain to you what is needed to flush a water heater. Please contact us with any questions or comments at brooksdollar@gmail.com

Nifty Grower 100ft Garden Hose – All New Expandable Water Hose with Double Latex Core, 3/4 Apex 8535-50, Medium Duty Garden Hose, 5/8-Inch by 50-Feet Flexzilla Garden Hose, 5/8 in. x 50 ft, Heavy Duty, Lightweight, Drinking Water Safe – HFZG550YW Camco 11360 24 Camco 11480 24 Camco 20922 Water Heater Drain Pan, 24-Inch x 24-Inch x 4-Inch Oatey 34151 Aluminum Water Heater Pan with 1-Inch Fitting, 20-Inch Glentronics, Inc. BWD-HWA Basement Watchdog Water Sensor and Alarm Water Alarm and Sensor for Water Leakage Detection, Sensitive Flood Alarm, Battery Included, LA Homieta WA08 Instapark IN07A Battery-Powered Water Leakage Detection Alarm and Sensor, 130 dB, 3 Pack Batteries Included TEKTON 26635 5/16-Inch Slotted by 8-Inch Screwdriver Channellock 440 12-Inch Tongue and Groove Plier

August 30, 2018 1

How to install security cameras

With technology prices dropping and crime always present. I recommend everyone installing some security cameras to the exterior of your home to provide some piece of mind. In this article I will write about how to install security cameras.

Swann SWDVK-849808 Super HD 5MP Security System, 8 Channel 2TB DVR with 8 x PIR Surveillance Kit, White Swann SWDVK-845804-US FULL HD (1920 x 1080p) Surveillance Camera System, 8 Channel 1TB DVR, White Swann 8 Channel Security System SWDVK-845808 1080p Full HD DVR-4575 with 1TB HDD & 8 x 1080p Thermal Sensing Cameras PRO-1080MSB

The first thing I like to take into consideration when setting up cameras is knowing how many cameras you would like, and if they will need to be wireless or wired. Wireless cameras will need a 120v power outlet next to where you mount the camera. It is important to remember that wireless cameras have a maximum distance for effective broadcasting, and their picture quality diminishes the farther away they get. Wired cameras will need a run of wire from where the camera is mounted to the DVR. I prefer homes with attics or businesses with drop ceilings when putting in wired systems. It is also smart to locate the DVR next to where the router will be located in order to be hardwired in. My three favorite brands to set up are Swann, Night Owl, and Zmodo.

Night Owl WM-8HD10L-4720 8CH W/4CAMERAS Night Owl Security HD201-86P-B Video Security Camera DVR with 1 TB HDD & 6 x 1080p Wired Infrared, White Night Owl Security, 8 Channel 1080 Lite HD Analog Video Security System with 1 TB HDD and 8 x 1080p HD Wired Cameras (White)Night Owl CL-HDA30-161022P-B 16 Channel 3MP Extreme HD Video Security System with 2 TB HDD & 8x3MP Bullet Cameras, White Night Owl Security WMBF-445-720 4 Channel 720p HD Video System Indoor/Outdoor (White)Night Owl 16-Channel 1080p Security System with 1 TB Hard Drive, 8x 1080p Bullet Cameras, and 100 Night Vision

Although there are numerous advantages of the newer camera systems then the older ones. I think the best feature of the newer security camera systems is that they give you the ability to view your cameras on your smartphone or tablet through their respective apps. Some of the systems have the ability to notify you when their is motion. The systems will start recording when there is motion for later viewing. You can go back in the archives of the DVR, and view the cameras whenever there was motion present.

Zmodo 8CH HDMI NVR Simplified PoE Surveillance Video Security Camera System With 8x720p HD Weatherproof Cameras 1TB HD Remote Access Motion Detection Zmodo Full HD 1080p Simplified PoE Security Camera System w/Repeater, 8 x 2.0 Megapixel IP Outdoor Surveillance Camera, 8CH HDMI NVR and 1TB Hard Drive Zmodo 1080p HD NVR WiFi System 4 HD Outdoor and 4 HD Indoor 1.0 Megapixel Wide Angle Wireless Security Camera with 500GB Hard Drive, Intelligent Recording, Smart Motion Detection, Web Access Zmodo 8CH Wireless Security Camera System – 1080P HDMI NVR with 500GB Hard Drive, 4 x 720P HD Wireless Cameras Night Vision – WiFi Easy Installation No Video Cables Needed (Certified Refurbished)Zmodo Wireless Security Camera System (2 pack) Smart HD WiFi IP Cameras with Night Vision

It is important to remember that some of the corners of the attic may be hard to squeeze into when running wires for the cameras. I will drill a small hole in the eave of the house for the wire and push a fish tape through the hole to retrieve the wire in the hard to reach spots. This technique will make your life much easier when running the wires. Please email us if you have any questions or concerns, and we can update this article accordingly. dollarmech@gmail.com

July 17, 2018 0

How to wire a home AC thermostat

Many homeowners are handy, but tend to get confused when it comes to their home AC system. In this article I will go over how to wire a home AC thermostat. First you will have to choose a AC thermostat to satisfy your personal needs. Whether you decide on choosing a Programmable or Non Programmable thermostat. They are wired the same way. Some of the newer Smart thermostats have Wifi compatibility so you can control the units with your smartphone or computer while away from the house. These thermostats usually require a Common Wire. So it is smart to look at the existing thermostat wiring if you don’t want to rewire a thermostat wire from the unit to the thermostat. Common wire is usually black, but I have seen different colors used. Common wire is attached to the common side of the 24v transformer that the red wire is attached to.

Thermostat wiring colors

Red – 24v POWER from transformer
Green – Fan
Yellow – Cooling (compressor/outdoor fan)
White – Heating (Gas Furnace or Electrical Heat Strips, Optional)
Orange – Heating (Heat Pump with a Reversing Valve, Optional)
Blue – Heating (Heating on Rheem and Ruud units)
Black – 24v Common from transformer

Nest (T3007ES) Learning Thermostat, Easy Temperature Control for Every Room in Your House, Stainless Steel (Third Generation), Works with Alexa ecobee4 Alexa-Enabled Thermostat with Sensor, Works with Amazon Alexa ecobee3 lite Smart Thermostat (2nd Gen), Works with Amazon Alexa Honeywell RCHT8610WF2006 Lyric T5 Wi-Fi Smart 7 Day Programmable Touchscreen Thermostat with Geofencing, Requires C Wire, Works with Alexa Honeywell RTH9585WF1004/W Wi-Fi Smart Color Programmable Thermostat, V. 2.0,Honeywell TH9320WF5003 Wi-Fi 9000 Color Touch Screen Programmable Thermostat, 3.5 x 4.5 Inch, White, ‘Requires C Wire Honeywell TH6210U2001/U T6 Pro Programmable Thermostat, 2 Heat/1 Cool Heat Pump Or 1 Heat/1 Cool Conventional Lux Products TX9600TS Universal 7-Day Programmable Touch Screen Thermostat Emerson UP310 Premium 7 Day Programmable Thermostat Honeywell TH3110D1008 Pro Non-Programmable Digital Thermostat Honeywell RTH221B1021/E1 RTH221B1021/A 1 Week Programmable Thermostat Honeywell CT87K The RoundHeat Only Manual Thermostat

When removing the cover of your old home AC thermostat you will see wires coming from the wall. Try to avoid breaking the wires when removing the old thermostat. REMEMBER THAT THE RED WIRE IS HOT! I recommend disconnecting the power of the unit if you are a novice electrician. You could possibly burn out a small fuse or pop a micro circuit breaker on the transformer. I tend to replace the thermostats really quickly without disconnecting power, but I have changed hundreds of thermostats and deal with different electrical wires daily. You just have to be careful with where the metal ends of the wire touch. I recommend installing the red wire first to get it out of the way. Going from one thermostat base directly into the other one. Green wire controls the indoor fan. Yellow wire controls the outdoor unit compressor and outdoor fan motor. White wire is usually used for gas furnaces or electrical heating. Orange wire is used for heat pump units, and it activates the reversing valve. Reversing valve changes the flow of the refrigerant. Blue wire is used on some units for heating. Black wire is almost always common. It is attached to the common side of the 24v transformer that the red wire is attached to.

After attaching the wires and reattaching the face plate. It is important to finish the steps in the instructions that came with the home AC thermostat. The newer Smart thermostats will have a series of questions to answer. It is important to answer the questions to the best of your ability. After you are done with the set up questions. I recommend testing the unit in the different modes to ensure that the wiring is correct. I will always test in cooling and heating to prevent a call back. If you have any questions about your home AC thermostat. Feel free to send us questions at dollarmech@gmail.com

July 13, 2018 0

Get your AC ready for summer!

Air conditioners are the most crucial part of the home or business during the summer months. It is imperative to get ready for the coming summer temperatures. In this article I will go over a few things to look at on your Air Conditioner to get your AC ready for summer.

Excelvan M6013 Digital Auto Ranging Capacitance Meter Capacitor Tester Professional 0.01pF to 470000uF LCD Digital Meter XC6013L Capacitance Capacitor Tester mF uF Circuit Gauge Capacitance Meter Tester ACM03 Digital Clamp Multimeter AC DC Current Voltage Resistance Capacitance Hz Meter Tester NCV Function

Capacitors are one of the most common things that go bad during the summer temperatures. You can prevent this by testing the capacitor Microfarad level by using a multimeter that is equipped with the feature. I recommend testing the indoor fan capacitor and outdoor fan capacitor. You can test the capacitor by removing one side of the circuit on the capacitor. Put the test leads of the multimeter across the top prongs of the capacitor. It should give you a microfarad reading of what the capacitor is rated for. So for example if you have a 12.5 microfarad capacitor. It would be most likely rated for plus or minus 6%.

12.5 x .06 = .75 So the capacitor shouldn’t be lower then 11.75 microfarads. Let’s say you have a capacitor that tested 11.13 microfarads. Then you would want to replace the capacitor with one that is within the range.

MARS – Motors & Armatures 12905 370V Oval 5 Micro-Farads Motor Run Capacitor Motor Run Capacitor, 370 Volt, Oval, 10 Micro-Farads PowerWell 35 + 5 MFD uf PW-35/5/R 370 or 440 Volt Dual Run Round Capacitor for Condenser Straight Cool or Heat Pump Air Conditioner 35/5 micro farad PowerWell 40 + 5 MFD uf PW-40/5/R 370 or 440 Volt Dual Run Round Capacitor for Condenser Straight Cool or Heat Pump Air Conditioner 40/5 micro farad PowerWell 45+5 MFD 45/5 uf 370 or 440 Volt Dual Run Round Capacitor PW-45/5/R for Condenser Straight Cool or Heat Pump Air Conditioner

Most home AC’s use Dual run capacitors. These are two capacitors that are built in one. One is used to run the Compressor, and the other is used to run the outdoor fan motor. Capacitors are used in a electrical circuit to boost the amperage. So they can hold a charge when removed from the circuit. It is important to discharge the capacitor by putting a piece of metal between the sets of prongs on the top of the capacitor. I like to use a screwdriver.

Fan motors should be working without any excessive vibrations or bearing sounds. It is important to be careful of bending fan blades. It is hard to repair a fan blade when a fan blade gets damaged. It is easier to just replace the fan blade with the exact same model of blade.

Goodman B1086756S Fan Blade Lomanco 003 Power Blade Vent FAN BLADES FOR EVAPORATOR MOTORS- 8 A95231 Metal Fan Blade 9

Condenser coils get dirty over the years with dust and other things. You can spray off the coils with a garden hose to help remove the dirt. I recommend using a condenser coil cleaner if the coils are really dirty. Most common spray on cleaners will require water for the condenser coils and no water required for the evaporator coils. Since there is a build of condensation on the evap coils during operation that will rinse the chemical cleaners off.

Drain Dawg Regulator, Blow Gun, and Accessory Fitting Kit Diversitech AP-DD Accessory Pack Drain Dawg Diversitech AP-06 Drain Dawg AC-Safe Foam Coil Cleaner – 19 ounce spray aerosol can: Cleans Evaporator and Condesor Coils, Fan Blades, and Reusable Air Filters ComStar 90-100 Coil King Professional Grade Concentrated Alkaline External Condenser Coil Cleaner, 1 gal Container, Yellow Air Conditioner Condenser Fin and Refrigerator Coil Cleaning Whisk Brush Nu-Calgon 4291-08 Nu-Brite, 1-Gallon

Most drains will get clogged over time with dirt, animal hair, and a sludge build up. I recommend checking the drains coming off the evap coils. You should clear the piping with water or compressed nitrogen if there is a clog. I like to use the drain dawg kit that has a long hose attached to a nitrogen regulator and tank.

March 4, 2018 0

Steps to winterize

Winter is coming!!! Now is time to get your systems ready for the colder temperatures if you haven’t done so already. In this article I will show you steps to winterize your units. Many people don’t really think about their AC or evaporative coolers much after the summer months, but if you continue to do necessary maintenance steps. Then you can help prolong the life of your units, and that will help you save a few bucks eventually.

Most units in Arizona that I come across are heat pump units. Meaning that they are built a special way in which they have a reversing valve. That will cause the hot air to blow across your indoor (evap) coils as opposed to usually leaving your outdoor (condenser) coil. Heat pumps usually are enough here in the desert since we only near freezing temperatures in the winter. Some heat pump units will have electrical heater strips as an addition to the heat pump operation. I have attached some examples of reversing valves below.

Brothers Heat Pump Reversing Valve 2.0 Ton Goodman 0151M00019SP Goodman Reversing Valve And Coil (B1227316S)Goodman 0151R00071SP Reversing Valve (V6-414081-1GD) comes w/ BFKZ-053S Bi-Flow Filter Drier Goodman B1225017 24V Reversing Valve Coil

There are many other types of heating systems. Another common set up is a gas furnace. They are sometimes built into package units. They are easily identifiable with their need for a gas line hooked up to the unit. You will want to make sure the units engage when you call for heating on your thermostat. If you have a gas system you will want to make sure the gas valve is open. The thermostat should engage the furnace. Which will cause gas to engage and get lit by the igniters. Electrical heat strips should engage if they are equipped. If you have a hydronic system. You will want to make sure the water pump engages and flows the water through your coils.

Watts Dormont 30C-3131KIT-48B Complete Gas Range Install Kit 48-Inch Length Mr. Heater One-Stop Universal Gas-Appliance Hook-Up Kit Hot Max 24201 Extension/Appliance Hose for Propane or Natural Gas, 25 Feet Etekcity Lasergrip 1080 Non-contact Digital Laser Infrared Thermometer Temperature Gun -58℉~1022℉ (-50℃～550℃), Yellow and Black Nubee Temperature Gun Non-contact Infrared Thermometer MAX Display & EMS Adjustable Fluke 62 MAX IR Thermometer, Non Contact, -20 to +932 Degree F Range

It is a good time to inspect the life of the other working parts of your evap cooler when winterizing it. I usually will replace the pads and possibly the belt at the end of the season if they have mineral build up on them. When winterizing I recommend shutting off the water supply, and removing the drain stem to remove the water from the pan. You can keep the fan plugged in if you would like to use it to bring in fresh air still. This is a good practice to follow because freezing water can shorten your machine’s life.

Clean Machine 120V Pump Dial Manufacturing 5218 1 Pint Cooler Cleaner Treatment 34 DIAL 51795 In-Line Scale Cartridge

I hope this article has helped you prepare for winter. Please comment or email if you need some help answering questions.

dollarmech@gmail.com

November 14, 2017 0

How to make your AC last longer

About 12 years ago, I was “Mr Naive” about AC’s. If you would of asked me how they worked. Then I would’ve said something like “PFM” (pure f*cking magic). Since then I have been to several schools that have taught me the ways of how various refrigeration systems run. They have taught me how to best care for pretty much every type of refrigeration machine you can think of. So, I thought I should pass some of that knowledge on to you guys. In this article I will cover some of the most basic things that you can look at to help make your AC last longer.

It is important to remember to safely turn off the power before reaching your hands around the fan blades or handling the electrical wiring.

Things to look at:

- - - - Filters – Replace your filters regularly with a similar size. I recommend at least looking at your filter monthly. Most filter replacements that I do are scheduled every 2 to 3 months, but it’s all depending on how much your system is running. I always recommend getting the pleated filters. The other ones do not filter the air as well. In my home I run a reusable filter. They are more expensive initially, but can be rinsed off and reused. Saving you money eventually.
      - Coils – A damaged coil will cost a lot to replace. So, I recommend treating your coils well. A few bent fins on you coil won’t really damage anything except the aesthetics of the machine. A loss of air flow across the coils will result if an abundance of the fins getting bent. They have fin combs that you can buy to help straighten the fins, but this is often tedious. It is important that your coils stay clean as well. Various stores sell coil cleaners that you can spray on and rinse off. I have attached some links of some that I approve of using. The reason that most cleaners will state that the outside coils (condenser) will need to be rinsed off is because there is little moisture that runs across the outside coils. The inside coils (evaporator) remove moisture from the air using the condensation method. The moisture that runs across these coils is enough to rinse them from the cleaners. I recommend cleaning your coils every year or two depending on where you live, and how much dust is usually on your coils.
    Goodman 3 Ton Uncased Upflow/Downflow Evaporator Coil 13 AC-Safe Foam Coil Cleaner – 19 ounce spray aerosol can: Cleans Evaporator and Condesor Coils, Fan Blades, and Reusable Air Filters 4171-75 – Air Conditioner A-Coil Evaporator Condenser Foam Coil Cleaner – No Rinse- 14oz Spray Can Fin Comb Air Conditioner Fin Cleaner By TOFL (1)ABN Condenser Fin Straightener Comb, AC Evaporator Coil Rake
    - Fan Blades – Inspect your fan blades while they are operating for abnormal operation. Condenser fan blades are notorious for vibrating once they get damaged. Vibrating fan blades will usually reduce your condenser fan motors life. I have also experienced indoor blower wheel fan blades getting damaged from various reason. The best way to repair a damaged fan blade is to replace it.
Fasco D7909 5.6-Inch Condenser Fan Motor, 1/4 HP, 208-230 Volts, 1075 RPM, 1 Speed, 1.8 Amps, Totally Enclosed, Reversible Rotation, Ball Bearing A.O. Smith ORM5458 1/3-1/6 HP, 1075 RPM, 208-230 volts, 2 Amps, 48Y Frame, Sleeve Bearing Condenser Motor Fasco D7908 5.6-Inch Condenser Fan Motor, 1/3 HP, 208-230 Volts, 1075 RPM, 1 Speed, 2.6 Amps, Totally Enclosed, Reversible Rotation, Ball Bearing A.O. Smith FSE1026SV1 1/4 HP, 1075 RPM, 208/230 Volts, 1.3-1.8 Amps, 48 Frame, Sleeve Bearing Condenser Motor B1086756 – Goodman Replacement Condenser Fan Blade -3 x 18 Goodman B1086756S Fan Blade Goodman B1086775SP Condenser Fan Blade 22 Whirlpool W10156818 Fan Blade – Condenser Goodman B1086750SP Condenser Fan Blade 22 Supco FBP100 Fan Blade And Blower Wheel Puller
- - - - Belts – Most residential units will not have a belt driven fan blades. Most commercial units are belt driven. Always replace your belt with a similar size and style if it is excessively worn or damaged.
      - Condensation drain – You will always see some sort of drain coming from the evaporator coil. The condensation drains are important to pay attention to. If they back up then could potentially ruin drywall and insulation if your air handler is located in your attic. Click here to see my other article about drains.
      - Contactors – Contactors are heavy duty relays. They use a small electrical current to control the larger current that is used to run your compressor and motors. The points that engage to let the electricity to pass through will get burnt over time. Once they become too worn they won’t allow the electricity to pass through. I recommend the replacing the contactor once they start having the burnt arching marks on the contacts.
      - Capacitors – If you have a multimeter that can check microfarads. Then I recommend checking the capacitor. They should be within 6% of the rating. I have attached a link on a recent article I wrote on capacitors.
      - Wiring – Making sure there isn’t any bare wires that could possibly arch or get caught in the fan blades. I recommend using zip ties to secure loose wires.
      - Fuses/Circuit Breakers – Ensure the fuses and circuit breakers are working correctly.
Buss HAC-R-40 – Edison Replacement Time Delay Fuse – 40 Amp 250V – RK5 Dual Element Bussmann FRN-R-60 60 Amp Fusetron Dual Element Time-Delay Current Limiting Fuse Class RK5, 250V UL Listed ( Box of 10 ) Fusetron FRN-R-40 – Edison Replacement Time Delay Fuse – 40 Amp 250V – RK5 Dual Element Littlefuse FLNR-60 – Box of 10 Edison Replacement Time Delay Fuse – 60 Amp 250V – RK5 Dual Element
- - - Gas lines – If your unit is equipped with gas lines. Make sure they are secure and not leaking. Some tend to rust eventually. Ensure the shut off valve operates correctly.
There is a quick way to ensure your AC is working properly during the cooling mode. You can put your hand above the condenser fan. You should be able to feel the heat coming off from the condenser fan while the unit is in cooling mode.

I hope that this article has helped you inspect your air conditioner. Please comment or email me with any questions or concerns, and I will update the article.

dollarmech@gmail.com

November 13, 2017 0

Why is my AC leaking water?

People always talk about how Arizona has a dry heat. Well during monsoon season the dry heat becomes a wet heat. Most people don’t even realize how well their air conditioner is working to keep out the humidity until they walk outside of their home. Have you recently asked yourself “why is my AC leaking water?”

13336076_10209853917691167_2895391890897447139_n — Looking for pinholes of leaking refrigerant on a rusty evap coil last year.

Air Conditioners use the condensation method to remove the moisture from the air in your home. The same thing that runs down your cold drink on a warm day. Is also keeping your home at a comfortable humidity range. This is the water you are seeing when you see water pouring from a drain in the side of your home.

If you have a package unit on top of your home. Then you should see a PVC or copper pipe coming from the unit. It should either run off the roof or into some sort of drain. Continuous water should be directed off your roof. It could progress deterioration of your roof over time.

If you have a split unit then you will usually either have an air handler in your attic or a side closet. These kind of units will usually have PVC or copper drains going through a wall to leak the condensation outside or to a separate drain.

Installed 2 new split systems earlier this year. Notice the PVC directing the condensation water to a separate drain.

20170725_153350 — New Trane Package Unit on top of a custom curb adapter. Notice the PVC connecting to an existing drain.

It is important to remember that these drains can get clogged over time with dust and it can turn into a sludge. These drains really can cause a problem if they get fully clogged, and if they are located inside your attic. They usually will have a secondary pan underneath the air handler if located in the attic. The pan will mostly always have a PVC or copper drain connected from it to the outside. A lot of people will usually not pay attention to the subtle signs that the condensation is leaking through the emergency drain instead of the primary drain. Once the secondary pan gets clogged as well. They tend to fill up after a few gallons. The water will then ruin your drywall and insulation underneath where unit is located. When looking at the side of your home where the drains are located. The lower drain should be your primary passage for the condensation. If your condensation is leaking through the higher drain. Then you can probably guess that your secondary pan is catching the leaking condensation from your air handler. I immediately suggest you go in the attic to inspect the pan.

If your secondary pan has water in it. Then I suggest you immediately turn off your AC unit to stop adding water to the situation. I suggest you get a Wet/Dry vacuum to put on the outside drain to try to unclog it. Don’t forget to remove the dust filter inside your wet/dry vac before sucking up water. If you cannot unclog it this way then I suggest going into the attic with your wet/dry vac to remove the obstruction from the drain this way. If you can’t get the drain to clear. Then I suggest you suck the water from the pan before working on the drain lines. It may take you a few trips to safely remove the water without too much damage to your insulation and drywall. Once the pan is clear from water. I recommend you using your wet dry vacuum to make sure the line is clear.

Most the time I will cut the drain line, and I will my pressurized nitrogen bottle to blow about 200 psi though the line. This method is the fastest and will usually take care of the problems for me. I then reconnect the drain line with either a shark bite quick connect fitting if it’s copper line, or I will use PVC coupler and glue. Condensation drain lines are usually 3/4″ but I have seen 1/2″ drain lines before.

I have attached some tools that will help you clear condensation drain lines more efficiently.

RIDGID 32975 Model 103 Close Quarters Tubing Cutter, 1/8-inch to 5/8-inch Tube Cutter RIDGID 31632 Model 151 Quick-Acting Tubing Cutter, 1/4-inch to 1-7/8-inch Tube Cutter K-D Tools 2107 Mini Tubing Cutter Pipe and Tube Cutter, Ratcheting Hose Cutter, One-hand Fast Pipe Cutting Tool with Ratchet Drive for Cutting Less Than 1-1/4 PVC Pipe Cutters By Haisstronica One-hand Fast pipe cutter tool with Ratchet Drive for Cutting Less Than 1-5/8in(42mm) O.D. PEX, PVC, and PPR Pipe Stanley Wet/Dry Vacuum, 6 Gallon, 4 Horsepower Shop-Vac 2021000 Micro Wet/Dry Vac Vacmaster 2.5 Gallon, 2 Peak HP, Portable Wet/Dry Vacuum, VP205 Vacmaster VFB511B 0201 Beast Series Professional Wet/Dry Vacuum Uniweld 40040 Nitrogen Sludge Sucker and Blaster Kit with Metal Carrying Stand for 40 Cubic Feet Nitrogen Tank DiversiTech CB-2 DrainDawg Condensate Line Drain Cleaning Kit New 20 cu ft Steel Nitrogen Cylinder with CGA580 Valve Fernco 1056-075 Condensate 3/4-Inch plastic or 3/4 and 1-Inch copper Pipe Connector PVC Pipe Coupler – Socket / Slip – Schedule 40 – White – 3/4-Inch – Pack of 6 SharkBite U016LFA4 Straight Coupling Plumbing Fitting, 3/4 Inch, PEX Fittings, Push-to-Connect, Coupler, Copper, CPVC SharkBite U3016LFA 3/4-Inch SharkBite Lead Free Repair Slip Coupling

I hope this article has helped you. Please comment or email me if you have any questions.

dollarmech@gmail.com

October 21, 2017 0

How to replace a capacitor on an AC

Did your AC stop blowing cold air? Are you dreading to call the AC guy? Did they charge you both arms and legs last time? Fear not! I will show you how to replace a capacitor on your home AC system, and help you save yourself $100-$300 by following these simple instructions. Capacitors are one of the most common things that could go wrong with an AC.

You will need to have the required tools that I mentioned in my other post.

ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE ELECTRICAL POWER BEFORE OPENING THE UNIT!!!

Please always be cautious of the fan blade, and try not getting shocked from the electricity.

Capacitors will hold a charge after the unit is turned off. So avoid touching both the terminals together at the same time. Until you can safely discharge the capacitor by putting the metal part of a screwdriver across the terminals after the unit is turned off.

First sign that a capacitor will need to be replaced is usually the outdoor fan or compressor will not be kicking on. If your outdoor fan motor blade is stuck still when unit should be energized. Then that is a sign that the outdoor fan motor will need to be replaced. Whenever a motor is replaced. I recommend replacing the capacitor along with it. Most residential units will have single phase voltage. That means that both the outdoor fan motor and compressor will have a capacitor for them. Most residential units will use Dual Run Capacitors which is both capacitors built into one. Three phase motors don’t use capacitors.

If you don’t have a microfarad tester built into your multimeter. Then I recommend getting a separate tester for capacitors. It would be a cool tool to lend to your friend if his capacitor went bad on his unit. You can test a capacitor by taking the wires off the terminals. Then put the tester on the terminals. Your tester should read what the capacitor is rated for. So if your capacitor was a 40 microfarads, and the capacitor was reading 36.4. Then your capacitor is bad and needs to be replaced. The capacitors microfarad readings will need to be whatever the motor calls for plus or minus 6%.

Motor Run Capacitor Round 30 uf MFD 370 Volt VAC 12717 PACKARD TRCD455 Titan Pro 45+5 MFD 370V Round Run Capacitor Replaces PRCD455 GE Genteq Replacement for Capacitor 30/5 uf 370 volt 97F9833, 370V, 30/5 MFD, Dual Run, Round Capacitor TradePro 40+5 uf MFD 370 or 440 Volt Dual Run Round Capacitor Bundle TP-CAP-40/5/440R Condenser Straight Cool/Heat Pump Air Conditioner and Zip Tie 40/5 MFD Multi-Purpose 440 or 370 Volt Round Run Capacitor Replacement TradePro 40+5 PACKARD TRCD455 Titan Pro 45+5 MFD 370V Round Run Capacitor Replaces PRCD455 PACKARD TRCD455 Titan Pro 45+5 MFD 370V Round Run Capacitor Replaces PRCD455 MARS – Motors & Armatures 12286 40 + 5 uF MFD x 440 VAC Genteq Replacement Dual Capacitor 10 MFD 440 or 370 Volt Oval Run Capacitor Replacement TradePro 10 microfarads Five Two One Inc CSR-U1 Compressor Saver Hard Start Capacitor Supco SPP6 Hard Start Kit RECTORSEAL 96506 Ks1 Kickstart Hard Start Kit Pocket Hose Ultra Expandable, 3X Stronger, 75 Feet LawnPRO 50’ Expanding Garden Hose. Kink-Free. 5,000 Denier Woven Casing. Copper Fittings. Steel Assembly Clamps. 12 Month Manufacturers Warranty. + Free Storage Bag HOAEY 100ft Expanding Hose, Flexible Garden Expandable Water Hose with Pipe Brass Fittings for Car Garden ( 100 Feet )