PTACs, also known as Packaged Terminal Air Conditioners, are a great option for climate control as they’re known for their long lifespan. However, if you want to ensure that a unit is in good condition and working optimally, proper maintenance would be the best solution.
Doing preventive maintenance is essential for long service life and efficient operation. Cutting corners may cause mechanical issues, which can prove to be expensive later on. No matter how durable your unit is, it still requires upkeep.
Fortunately, diligent safekeeping of PTAC units is easy. All you have to do is to follow these tips:
1. Clean The Filter
One of the first tips to ensure that your PTAC unit functions well and stays clean is to check the filter for dirt. It might seem to be a no-brainer, but most PTAC owners neglect to clean the filter. Later, they find themselves with what appears to be a broken down unit and look for another PTAC unit from places like PTAC Inc. for a replacement.
Simple care is all that’s needed. That’s why it’s crucial to keep your PTAC unit’s filter clean at all times. If it gets clogged, it may result in more expensive and serious issues later on like compressor failure or poor unit performance.
The good news is that cleaning the filter isn’t complicated to do. Typically, you’ll only remove the filter, vacuum it, and then put it back again. But if it’s too dirty, you’ll need to take a step further by using a mild soap to wash it properly. Besides, you don’t want the airflow to be blocked by a dirty filter. Clean it regularly if possible.
2. Clean Your Unit’s Coils
If your PTAC’s coils get dirty, you might have to use specialized coil cleaners. Regardless of what you use, ensure that it’s right for the kind of PTAC maintenance you’re doing. Remember that some cleaners might be too harsh for indoor coils while some are made to be used for outdoor coils.
You should also check the drain pans and holes. You’ll have to remove any debris or buildup from the holes as well as nearby areas. Just don’t forget to let your PTAC unit dry after you’re done cleaning the coils.
3. Have A Maintenance Log
When caring for your PTAC unit, see to it that you have your own updated maintenance log. With this, you can easily track your air conditioner problems and monitor them. It may also help you or your hired experts to diagnose the root causes of performance failure.
4. Clean Your PTAC Unit’s Outside Parts
Your PTAC unit has parts exposed to the outdoors. You’ll need to give them a thorough cleaning often. Get rid of the cover and try removing the debris trapped in the unit. Once done, make sure to check if you’ve installed the cover properly before turning it on.
5. Pay Attention To The Plugs And Power Cords
As you do maintenance to your PTAC unit, it’s essential to keep tabs on the plugs and power cords. A break in the insulation, most particularly on the older models, may spark disaster for your property and your unit. Ensure that the plugs are snug in the receptacles because a loose fit might start a fire.
6. Get Rid Of Any Obstructions Away From Your Unit
Try keeping any potential obstructions away from your unit, regardless if it may affect the outside or inside parts. To protect your air conditioning unit’s exterior, remove any shrubs or trees near your unit that may cause trouble. For the interior, furniture or curtains might impede the airflow of your PTAC unit and may affect its efficiency.
7. Check If Every Feature Works
One of the best care tips you should do for your PTAC unit is to double-check if all features are working, including thermostats, switches, and controls. Take note that even a small problem may lead to a bigger one. So, for instance, if your unit’s switch isn’t working properly, replace it as soon as possible before it leads to further damage.
8. Oil Your PTAC Unit
Some PTAC units feature motors with oil ports. If your unit comes with oil ports, ensure that you keep them oiled if necessary. However, make sure to read the manufacturer’s specifications first for oiling such parts to know what’s necessary for your unit.
Conclusion
These are just some of the many maintenance tips you could follow to keep your PTAC unit in great shape and help improve its performance—not to mention saving you money in the process.
If such tips don’t make a difference to your unit’s efficiency and performance, it’s best to contact the professionals to do the job for you. Doing so could also prevent some possible problems that may occur in the long run once minor issues are neglected.
