Beat the Heat: Top Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips
Summer is here, and if you haven’t already, there’s a good chance you’ll be switching on the air conditioner soon.
You want it to work efficiently to keep you cool and fresh all summer long – and that means you’ll need to carry out some regular maintenance.
Fortunately, air conditioner maintenance is quite straightforward, so let’s take a look at some of the most important things you’ll need to do.
Replace the Air Filters
The first thing to do is check the air filters regularly. This usually means about every three months, but check the manufacturer’s guidelines.
If the filters get dirty or clogged up, they can reduce the airflow, which makes your air conditioner less efficient.
If you have cleanable filters, you can clean them with water and detergent. If not, you may need to replace them.
Clean the Condenser & Evaporator Coils
These coils should be cleaned about once a month at times of the year when you are using your air conditioner unit regularly. At other times of the year, you can clean them less frequently.
Cleaning the coils is quite easy to do. You can often simply use a vacuum cleaner to remove the build-up of dirt and dust, which the coils often accumulate. Again, this can affect how efficiently the AC unit is running.
Clear the Condensate Drain
The condensate drain can often get clogged up with dirt and debris over time. This can lead to leaks and even damage.
Get in the habit of inspecting it once a month or so, and clean it out if needed. You may want to use a dedicated cleaning solution for this.
Check the Fan Blades
The fan is an important part of the AC unit, so make sure it is working properly. Turn off the power and check the blades for signs of cracks or splits. You may need to replace the fan if it is showing signs of damage.
Check the Wires
It’s also a good idea to check the wires and look for signs of wear and damage. Where there is obvious damage, you will want to get it fixed. But this is not something to do on your own, and it’s best to leave it to an electrician.
Clear the Outside Unit
Make sure you keep the outdoor condenser clean and clear of debris, leaves and dirt. You should also get rid of obstructions like plants, and it should have a clear space around it of at least a couple of feet.
Hire a Professional
Many of these tasks are things you can do yourself to keep your air conditioner in good condition. But it’s always a good idea to get a professional to look over it regularly once a year or so.
They can not only carry out the more basic maintenance tasks, but also do more advanced checks like turning up your air conditioner, checking the refrigerant, replacing the fan belts and spotting more serious problems.
Stay Cool This Summer
Many of us are grateful for our air conditioners when the temperature rises during the summer months, but make sure your AC unit stays in good working condition so it can perform properly.
Follow these maintenance tips so you can stay cool this summer no matter how hot it gets.