Basic Air Conditioning Maintenance for Homeowners
Ensuring that your air conditioner functions through the hottest days is more than just a matter of keeping it plugged in. Like all machines, an air conditioning system goes through a lot of wear and tear over time. Here are some tips to ensure your AC unit enjoys a longer operating lifespan.
Keep It Clean. To ensure maximum efficiency, cleaning your air conditioner is important. Clean out intakes and the vents so that air flow isn’t impeded. Additionally, outdoor units need to be regularly checked for leaves and dirt around the condenser coils. Sweep off dead leaves or twigs on the unit if there are any, and try to leave two feet around the unit free of any foliage.
Replace Filters. Air filters are an important part of air conditioners. They ensure that the unit’s coils are not compromised by dirt and if they do get clogged you can expect trouble in the future. Some filters can be washed, but most of them are disposable. Try to have them replaced every three months to ensure smooth operation.
A Yearly Tune-up. There are some things that you can’t do on your own when maintaining an AC unit like checking for refrigerant leaks and assessing the actual condition of the unit’s motor. Schedule a yearly visit by your local service center. These checkups can also double as tune-ups to improve AC performance.