Copyright © 2011 InterAlia | Siem Reap, Cambodia | email: interalia@theironworkshop.org

InterAlia is a member of The Iron Workshop family, created by Una Goccia per il Mondo  

Q: Water is leaking inside my room from the front of the air conditioner, what's up?

A: The evaporator coils on the front of the a/c produce water which normally travels through a drain system to the back of the unit where the water is evaporated. This drain is probably plugged and the water is running towards the front and leaking out.  

 

Q: Is my air conditioner powerful enough for my room?

A:  Power of air conditioners is measured in BTU (British Thermal Unit). The amount of BTUs required to efficiently cool down your room depends on several factors: size, exposure, insulation, number of doors and windows, etc. A free visit from our staff will help you to calculate the right amount of BTUs for your requirements.  

 

Q: What can I do to make my air conditioner more efficient?

A: Prevent any direct sunlight from heating up the room the unit is in. Clean the dust filter every month or as often as it needs it. Limit using any heat generating appliances such as stoves, ovens, microwave ovens, hair dryers, etc.

 

Q: Why bother with a yearly Preventative Maintenance Service?

A: Yearly preventative maintenance is a wise thing to do. Properly maintaining your system will save you money on your energy bills and will help your system perform at peak efficiency. A properly maintained system also lasts longer which is important due to the expense of replacement. During a preventive maintenance, certain parts that can cause trouble when dirty, are cleaned to keep the system running smoothly and efficiently.

 

Q: What is the most efficient way to run my cooling system?

A: Here are several tips to help you keep your system running at its most efficient level:

   * Keep your thermostat at a constant temperature; the recommended temperature is 2-3 degrees lower than the room temperature.

   * Clean your filters every month.

   * Check the outside condensing unit regularly for any grass clippings or leaves stuck to the coil. If it is dirty:

        - Disconnect the power at the circuit breaker FIRST!

        - Use a shop-vac with a brush attachment to vacuum off the debris.

        - Run water from a garden hose through the coil until the water passing through it is clear.

        - Turn the power back on.

   * Have the unit serviced every spring by a licensed service company.

 

Q: How long does it take to install?

A: In most circumstances, a twin split application can be installed in ½ day day, with minimum disruption.

 

Q: Which manufacturer make the best air conditioner?

A: Air conditioning is a matured technology so most of the popular brands work well. Many of them use parts made by the same manufacturers. So, the main considerations are the price, warranty, attractiveness, noise, etc. Some manufacturers offer a 3-5 year warranty on all parts while others offer only 1 year. Whatever you decide, the most important consideration is the contractor you use. You may buy the best system in the world but if it is not properly installed, you will actually be buying nothing but a big headache for years to come.

 

We have provided answers to the most frequently asked questions about air conditioning.

 

Should you still not find the answer to your question, please contact us for assistance or advice.