Air conditioners are a modern convenience we often take for granted until they break down on the hottest day of the year. Performing regular maintenance can keep your air conditioner running efficiently and ensure that it provides cool comfort all summer long. Here are some simple air conditioner maintenance tips.
Clean or replace the filter
This is one of the most important things you can do to keep your air conditioner running well. A dirty filter restricts airflow and can cause the evaporator coil to ice up, which reduces efficiency and may damage the compressor. Many homeowners assume that because filters aren’t technically part of the AC unit itself, they’re not included in normal maintenance procedures; but as explained above, a dirty filter can make your air conditioner work less efficiently and shorten its lifespan, so it’s important to stay on top of this task.
Check refrigerant levels
A lack of refrigerant will reduce your AC system’s cooling capacity and cause it to work harder than it should. In some cases, low refrigerant could be an indication of a leak in your system; if so, you’ll want to hire an HVAC technician for air conditioner company Fort worth before recharging the refrigerant.
Clean Coils Regularly
Dirt and debris on condenser coils restrict airflow and insulate the coil, reducing its ability to absorb heat. This makes your system work harder to cool down. For optimum performance, clean outside condensing unit coils annually. And be sure to shut off power to the unit before doing any work!
Spray off the blades
Spray off your fan blades with a garden hose, then wipe them clean with a cloth. Be sure they can spin freely, and lubricate them as needed with an oil designed specifically for the job (available at hardware stores).
Vacuum the fan motor
Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dirt and other debris from around your fan motor (usually found in an enclosed part of the unit containing electrical wires), then replace the cover securely so that no small animals or objects can get inside while it’s not in use. (Many people use their condenser units as storage spaces during winter months.)
Check Your Filter Monthly
Dirty filters restrict airflow, reducing efficiency and eventually causing damage. If you don’t have central air conditioning, you can buy an inexpensive filter for the return vent of your furnace/air handler (usually located in the basement). All central air conditioning units also come equipped with a filter. Check it regularly; if it’s dirty or clogged, replace it. Changing or cleaning the filter is easy; most are designed to pop right out, and you should be able to find replacements at any hardware store.
Keep Your Unit Clean
A clean unit will run more efficiently than a dirty one. Make sure to vacuum out all dirt, dust, and debris that has built up over time. Also, inspect the coils and clean them with a commercial cleaner if needed.
Finally, If your existing equipment is more than 10 years old, it may make sense to replace it with a newer model that’s much more energy-efficient. A new energy-efficient model can pay for itself with lower energy bills within a few years. In addition, if your equipment is nearing the end of its life expectancy, replacement may be a better financial choice than continued repairs.