Originally Posted By: Kestas
I'm confident my a/c unit is in decent shape. I just had a spark of an idea to boost the output because I use the same technique when servicing automotive a/c in the driveway, and when my car overheated in Death Valley. Also, thermal transfer is some 13 times greater with water than with air.
Nighttime cooling is not a problem.
As far as mineral buildup, thanks for the heads up. But my imperfect system also washes away the excess water and probably any mineral buildup.
Is your evaporator coil clean? If not, your unit will run longer than necessary due to the fact that a dirty/clogged evap will not efficiently absorb heat.
I experimented with misting my condensor coils years ago and it was interesting. I have a water softener so I wasn't worried about mineral build-up. I tied an electric sprinkler valve into the 18vac line so the valve opened allowing water to flow when the relay tripped. Made it all automatic. You have to carefully watch for any mineral build-up. Use a foaming acid based detergent condensor coil cleaner, not soap. Don't use this type of cleaner indoors as it'll generate fumes.
That said, if its a temporary heat load during the day due to the excessive temps in your area, you can also ease the load on your A/C by watering your roof. No kidding. Direct the stream so it arcs up and hits the roof at the ridge and let it run down to the eave. This works due to waters high specific heat. You can do it during the day, but it will eventually heat back up; best to do it after the sun is low in the west or has set. Water it down good.
This will cool your attic and lower the delta-T between your living space and attic.
I did this regularly last year when the big heat wave was here in Tx. 70+ days of over 100°. My attic temp would drop 12° in an hour when I did this at sunset.
