Keep That Air Conditioner Running

A healthy air conditioner is a good health policy.

On a hot summer day an air-conditioner can make the difference between heat prostration and certain comfort. So, it's wise to learn to identify small problems before they can become big ones. A noisy condenser (the unit outside) can result from a fan blade hitting something, a loose access panel or a motor going bad. If the fan is clear and the panels are secure, call a technician and have the motor checked. A loud rumble at the furnace end of the configuration also can mean a bad motor, but chances are the fan belt wants you to know that it's time for replacement. Why is it so important to maintain these problems before a shutdown occurs? Well, if your luck is like ours, it'll happen during a hot spell -- and that could mean the end of your favorite record collection. And that's the On The House tip for today.


See more tips in the Heating and Cooling category!