How to Troubleshoot an Attic Air Conditioner
An attic air conditioner functions in much the same way as any portable air conditioner in a home. Erratic performance, insufficient air flow or warm air coming from the air conditioner indicates that there is a problem -- one that you must discover if the AC unit is to continue to work efficiently. You can troubleshoot the air conditioner, locate the issue affecting its performance and correct that issue. You will need a few common household tools. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Ladder
- Phillips screwdriver
- Stiff bristle brush
- Utility knife
- Electrical lubricant spray
- Paper towels
Instructions
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Unplug the air conditioner's power cord from an AC outlet. Place a ladder against an outside wall so that you can reach the air conditioner. Remove the screws from the back of the air conditioner with a Phillips screwdriver and pull the back off. Dust off the cooling coils that are now visible with a stiff bristle brush to remove loose dirt, grime and other contaminants. Place the back on the air conditioner and reattach the screws. Plug the power cord back into the outlet.
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Trip the circuit breaker at the fuse box to discontinue electric power to the attic. Loosen the screws on the electrical junction box in the attic with a Phillips screwdriver. Unwind the air conditioner's power lines from around the screws. Scrap the exposed ends of the power lines with the blade of a utility knife. Shake a can of electrical lubricant spray for 10 seconds. Spray each screw on the electrical junction box with a two-second burst. Wind the ends of the power lines back around the screws and tighten the screws. Restore the power at the fuse box.
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Pull the vent panel off the front of the air conditioner. Wipe both sides of the vent panel with a stiff bristle-brush to remove the dust and other contaminants that are inhibiting the flow of air. Wash the vent panel with tap water. Wipe the panel with paper towels. Let the vent panel air dry. Return the vent to the front of the air conditioner
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