There aren't many things more frustrating than an air conditioning that refuses to run. A hot, muggy home can make your space incredibly uncomfortable, which is why I have always focused on maintaining my air conditioning system. Unfortunately, I still run into problems from time to time and I am sure that all of you do, which is one of the reasons I decided to build this website. Check out these posts for more information about keeping your system working beautifully, even if you aren't naturally good at fixing things. You never know, making the right changes could dramatically improve your summertime experience.
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Keeping Your HVAC System In Great Condition
The Effects of Bent Fins on the Overall Efficiency of Your Air Conditioner
Herbert Franklin
Fins are part of the air conditioning system. They form part of the compressor and are in the outdoor compartment of the unit. If the fins bend and suffer other damages, they interfere with the system's ability to absorb and exchange heat. The fact that these fins get easily damaged is why you often find fin combs whose role is straightening out these bent parts of the system. Here are ways issues with the fin affect the overall functionality of the AC.
Damage to the Coil
Be careful about the state of your air conditioner fins at all times. Bent fins are not an outright indicator that the coil is damaged. However, they can make the process simpler. The aluminum fins are a buffer for the delicate copper fins that make up the coils. If the fins already have damage, hail, dust, and other environmental factors will have an easier time reaching the system's core. Consequently, it will be more susceptible to failure than a unit without fin damage.
Poor Heat Exchange and Air Circulation
The hot side of the air conditioner unit is the outdoor unit, while the cold side is the indoor unit. Bent fins typically reduce the airflow that the cool side inside the house experiences. They also inhibit the process of heat exchange in the hot side located outside the house. Consequently, parts of the coils on the inside get blocked off and lose their cooling efficiency. Similarly, the air does not get cycled across the coils outside the unit, which leads to heat retention. These two problems ultimately lead to an overall drop in unit efficiency and poor indoor air quality.
Excessive Accumulation of Debris
Debris accumulation is another issue you might face when you have an air conditioning unit with bent fins. Fins in the bent position accumulate more dirt than if in the straight orientation. The decreased amount of space between the individual pieces of metal usually creates pockets where dirt and debris can pile up. Eventually, this inhibits the flow of air through the system and creates a drop in its efficiency.
If you need help handling potential problems resulting from damage to the air conditioner fins, contact a professional AC repair technician in your area. Explain the condition of the fins and have them assess it. They can help straighten them out and restore the optimal air movement within the system.
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