Air conditioners are a type of sensitive electronic appliance that can be damaged by power surges, just like any other electronic device. Despite being located outside and designed to withstand various weather conditions, air conditioners are not indestructible.
It requires regular maintenance and care to ensure that your air conditioner runs efficiently and effectively. Adding a surge protector to your air conditioner is a practical way to protect it from power surges and ensure that it remains functional for many years to come.
In addition to changing the filters, consider installing the Intermatic Compressor Defender. It’s a surge and low-voltage protector for your AC unit. It works similar to how a surge protector in our home protects your computer and other sensitive electronic equipment.
It’s not advisable to rely on the built-in surge protection in your air conditioner. Despite manufacturer claims, additional protection can ensure that your air conditioning unit runs smoothly even during the hottest summer days.
Monitor Your Voltage
Maintaining consistent power to your air conditioner is essential for efficient operation. When voltage is too low, the motor will draw more current than usual, and the temperature of the motor windings will increase by 10% to 15% for every 10% decrease in voltage.
This can damage the motor and reduce the life of your air conditioner. The Compressor Defender continuously monitors voltage and quickly responds (within 3 line cycles) to low voltage conditions, even before an overload can heat up and react.
Power quality issues are common in power grids nationwide, and rolling blackouts are becoming more frequent. Therefore, it’s crucial to protect your air conditioner units as much as possible.
Surge Protection
Proper surge protection is important to ensure our sensitive electronics aren’t damaged. We’ve previously covered Intermatic’s Surge Protective device, which does an outstanding job safeguarding our household electronics, but what about major household appliances, specifically the air-conditioner.
Intermatic has a solution to prevent brownouts, surges, and short cycles at 120,208, and 240 VAC loads. Their Compressor Defender absorbs surges so your AC can continue running smoothly and without interruption.
When a power surge hits your air conditioner, it can cause it to reset and interfere with its electronic settings, similar to what can occur with a computer.
Installation
The Compressor Defender can be installed in just ten minutes and can be placed inside a condensing unit or on an outdoor compressor. It is compliant with the AHRI standard 110-1012.
By installing a Compressor Defender, you can save money on expensive service calls and out-of-warranty repairs.
Air conditioners can be costly, but with proper care and protection, they can last a long time. Check to see if your air conditioner has a surge protector, and if not, consider adding one to extend the life of your AC unit.
