If your home has a 4-ton air handler, you’re moving and managing a lot of air on the regular. That’s not to say that there’s an undue amount of stress on the air handler, because it’s designed to manage that much air. It does, however, mean that you can and should provide basic residential maintenance to ensure you’re getting the most out of your investment and protecting your air handler for the long haul.
Follow these tips to keep your Goodman 4 ton air handler in top working condition. First, turn off the power supply to the unit and then take this into consideration.
1. Inspect and change air filters regularly
Your HVAC system’s air handler is one of its most vital yet unassuming components. While some Goodman 4 ton air handlers can be equipped with UV lights to clean the air as it passes through the system, the air filter will actively remove particulate matter, including but not limited to spores, pollen, dust, smoke, and other pollutants from the air. The UV light kills bacteria and viruses, but it can’t do it all, and some systems don’t even have one.
Get in the habit of checking your air filter every two months or so. Pull it out and give it a quick look. If it is brown or gray, it’s time to replace it, no matter how old it is. Otherwise, make it a point to change it every three months or so regardless.
2. Inspect for rust and leaks
Next, you’ll want to check for excess moisture leaking when the unit is operating. A little bit of condensation is alright but too much can be a problem and can cause rust. Also check the refrigerant lines and make sure there is no leaking around them. Also pay close attention to the condensate and the surfaces to which it’s adhering and make sure there’s no rust.
3. Check drain pan and clean as necessary
Take a look in your drain pan and make sure it’s not overflowing and is emptying as it should be. If the drain line is clogged, unclog it with a brush or with a wet-dry vac.
If there is mold or algae in the drain pan, clean the pan out thoroughly before replacing it. If you notice that mold or algae formation is a consistent problem, consider treating the pan with a mold or algae tablet.
4. Clean blower
Using a dry brush, free any accumulated dust and remove it using a shop vac. There are also some special foam cleaners you may be able to use but their use is typically restricted to HVAC technicians. Keeping the blower clean will help ensure the energy-efficient operation of the unit.
5. Straight coil fins
If your Goodman 4 ton air handler has bent coil fins, they need to be straightened. You can use a special fin straightening tool, or get intrepid and do so (gently) with a butter knife or a clean, flat putty knife. While you’re straightening the fins, make sure they are clean and unobstructed. If they aren’t use a vacuum and brush attachment to clean out the dust that can be hampering the efficient operation of the unit.
6. Listen for weird noises and have the HVAC system serviced at a minimum once per year.
Finally, one of the most important things you can remember is that there are simply some maintenance procedures that are best left to HVAC technicians. You can’t really fix everything yourself. Listen for odd sounds emanating from your system and call an HVAC expert whenever you hear one.
Additionally, it’s worth your time to have an HVAC specialist come and administer professional service to your air handler at least once per year, if not twice.
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Check out their website via the link above and contact them directly at 855-473-6484 if you have any questions!
