AC Maintenance

Big Love wrote:
I read that running the A/C periodically helps circulate the refrigerant/oil to lubricate the seals, so that refrigerant leaks are less likely over the long run...not sure how often is recommended, probably varies by manufacturer, but I try to run mine every couple of months for a few minutes when not using regularly.

On the rooftop units, there are no seals that need to be lubed as there would be on a piston type compressor. The compressors are hermetically sealed and the rest of the refrigeration circuit is sweated copper tubing, so there are no lube or leak points. Not much is needed in the way of maintenance except keeping the return filter clean and may once a year go up, pull the cover, and see if the coils need to be cleaned. Most likely they will not.

I use the air conditioner to exercise the generator during the summer (once a month) - other than that I only use it when I need it (which is almost never in Oregon). My AC is still operating fine and it's from early 90's .. I find the oiling and cleaning the filters/evaporator/condenser seems to work for me.

I read that running the A/C periodically helps circulate the refrigerant/oil to lubricate the seals, so that refrigerant leaks are less likely over the long run...not sure how often is recommended, probably varies by manufacturer, but I try to run mine every couple of months for a few minutes when not using regularly.

I have never "exercized" mine. Just turn it on when needed.