5 DIY Air Conditioning Maintenance Tips

Summer is on its way and before you know it, you will be wanting to turn on that A/C unit to keep the temperature and humidity at bay.

We have put together a few DIY pre-season checks to ensure that your air conditioner will be both operating efficiently and to its full potential.

Check The Filter

Depending on the filter type, these may need to be either replaced or cleaned.  The cleaning or replacing of the filters is a very simple task that is all too often overlooked.  Dirty filters will restrict airflow and drastically reduce the efficiency and performance of your air conditioner.  Most filters can be cleaned with a mild detergent and warm water.  Dry the filters before re-fitting them to the unit.

Check The Condensate Drain

Your air conditioner doesn’t just cool your home down, it also reduces humidity levels.  Moisture from the conditioned space is collected in a drain pan and then drained away.  A drain not flowing freely will promote mould growth.  If your drain is all blocked up it will end up leaking.  Check/clean the drain with at least a liter of warm water and ensure it is all draining away.

Check The Outdoor Condensing Unit

Like the indoor

unit, it is important that the condensing unit is kept free of obstructions for optimal performance.  The condensing unit is the heart of your air conditioning system, so it is important to keep it in tip top condition.  Clear any leaves and debris from around the unit that may be restricting airflow and remove any plant growth.  Check that the unit is sitting level and that any the footings are solid.  If the coil looks particularly dirty, isolate the power supply and wash down with a mild detergent and the garden hose.

Clean The Vents

Regular cleaning of the vents and grills is a must.  But if you haven’t done it in a while now is a great time to do it.  Check that they are all fixed securely and that any dampers that may be installed all operate freely

Hire A Pro

Basic air conditioning maintenance is simple.  But there are still a few more in-depth checks that should only be undertaken by an experienced service technician.

Not all service companies are created equal, so it pays to check for reviews online before you choose who to call.  A seasoned serviceman will spot any potential small problems and get them sorted before they become big problems.

 

Air conditioning maintenance is important.  A regularly maintained system will not only run at peak performance and optimal efficiency, but it will also add years to its operating life.