How to Properly Clean Your Air Conditioner’s Outside Unit Yourself

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Most homeowners this summer have been using their air conditioning units fairly often with the record setting temperatures and extreme bouts of dryness we have been experiencing. And in doing so, they are naturally concerned about making sure their cooling systems continue to work as efficiently as possible. One of the ways to ensure a smooth running heating and cooling system is to keep it clean.

Debris, Dust and Grime Clogs Up An AC Unit

Though the build-up can accumulate over time, cleaning your unit literally only takes minutes. Over time, the grill in a typical outside AC system collects dried leaves, dirt, dust, grime, cotton and flying weeds plus cobwebs and other natural debris. Too much debris can clog your system and ultimately impact your air conditioner’s working efficiency.

Usually There is No Need for Service Calls

Contrary to what come companies may advertise, the truth is that most air conditioning systems do not require any services for at least three to four years from when they were first installed (new). There may be an occasional need but for the most part the only thing needed is a quick cleaning. While a service company may charge anywhere from $90 on up to do the same thing, you can easily take care of this small task yourself.

Cleaning the Coils of An Outside AC Unit is Simple

All you need is a regular garden hose. A sprayer attachment works well too but is not necessary. The most important thing to remember when cleaning your unit is to be gentle. The internal and outside components can easily be damaged if cleaned using a power washer of any sort. That’s why we recommend using a simple garden hose with or without a standard sprayer.

Step 1: Turn up the temperature on your thermostat so that while you are cleaning the unit does not kick on.

Step 2: Turn the water on and holding the garden hose about six inches away from the grill, start at the top of your AC unit.

Step 3: In a sweeping motion going across and then moving downward, row-by-row, systematically clean off each section of your unit, breaking up any dust, dirt, grime or other debris.

Step 4: Reset your thermostat to your desired temperature.
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That’s it! In just a few minutes, you have cleaned your air conditioner unit, unclogging the areas where air flows and made your unit operate much more efficiently!

Real Estate Market Update Summer 2012

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Anyone buying a home, selling, considering investing or building a home should be aware that this summer has been a very successful one for the real estate market. In fact, with some unprecedented trends going on in our marketplace, we have been very fortunate to be able to break out of the rut after the housing crisis of 2007.

Today, it is a phenomenal time to be involved in real estate. Whether buying or selling, people are out there and there is plenty of activity. Here is a quick look at how our market in Omaha is faring in three key areas.

Interest Rates Continue to Be at All-Time Lows

We have gotten used to these incredible rates but everyone knows that they will not last long. In fact, no one really knows how long we will have the benefit of such a low cost of borrowing money. But before it does change, we urge you to consider how much money overall can be saved by locking in these phenomenal rates – as low as 4% for a conventional 30-year fixed rate loan and in some cases 3% or lower for 15-year mortgages.

Sellers Enjoying Success With Increased Home Sales

The home inventory in Omaha continues to go down, a sign that the market is shifting toward a sellers’ marketplace. What this means for buyers is that you will face increased competition out there but as a seller it translates to a far better experience than you could have expected just a couple years ago. With about 4,500 homes currently active on our MLS right now, many of our customers are concerned about selling their home going into their new home contract. However for the ones that have a proper strategy in place, are backed by a strong real estate agent and have done all the work to prepare their home for sale – homes are selling in a matter of days.

Land Lots Going Fast

The number of available land lots on hand is coming down too. As a builder in over 55 neighborhoods, we at Charleston Homes have strong relationships with the community of developers. The big news in this area is that prices seem to have stabilized a bit and in some cases we are even seeing them come up somewhat. For people considering the purchase of a new home, this means that now is the best time to purchase.

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The one crystal clear message that comes out of the current state of our market is that now is the best time to buy. Before you regret not locking in amazing interest rates or not having first pick of some of the best homes on the market, we suggest you consider pursuing your real estate dreams today.

If you would like a customized consultation to discuss your specific new home needs, we invite you to contact us at one of our model locations – Saddlebrook at 402-934-2212 or Portal Ridge at 402-502-5600.