Air-conditioner maintenance should be done at least once a year to keep your A/C unit working as efficiently as possible. The Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute recommends having your A/C system inspected and tuned up in the spring, before you need to use your A/C on a regular basis. Regular air-conditioner maintenance keeps your system running efficiently, which saves money on utility bills, and catches small repair issues before they develop into larger ones.
Air-conditioner maintenance you can do on your own:
- Filters. Your A/C air filters should be changed regularly. During spring and summer, when allergies are at their peak, consider changing your filter as often as once a month to keep circulating air free of pollen and other allergens. A clean filter improves indoor air quality and conserves energy.
- Condensing unit. If your condensing unit is on the ground outside your home, make sure it’s kept clear of leaves, grass, trash and other debris that can block airflow, which reduces energy efficiency. If you have access to a hose, occasionally spray the condensing unit off to keep it clean.
- Vents. Give your inside vents a once-over to make sure they aren’t blocked by furniture, drapes or other obstructions that keep air from flowing freely.
In addition to DIY maintenance, your air conditioner should be professionally serviced at least once a year. Hire a NATE-certified technician to do more technical maintenance tasks such as:
- Checking/recharging refrigerant.
- Capturing any refrigerant that needs to be evacuated from the system and disposing of it properly.
- Fixing leaks.
- Ensuring the condensate drain is draining properly and/or removing any obstructions/blockages.
- Inspecting, repairing and/or lubricating moving parts.
- Inspecting, repairing and/or tightening electrical connections.
- Measuring airflow through the evaporator coil.
- Checking to make sure the thermostat is accurate.
- Ensuring ducts are leak-free and insulated properly.
- Testing the system through a complete cycle, verifying the heating and cooling systems can work at the same time.
- Checking the motor and belts for tightness and wear.
Ready to check “air-conditioner maintenance” off your spring cleaning list? The sooner the better! Please contact us at ISI Indoor Solutions. Our NATE-certified HVAC technicians have provided excellent customer service to Columbus, Ga., Phenix City, Ala., and the surrounding area since 2003.
