A Complete Guide to Year-Round Maintenance on Your AC Unit

You don’t want your air conditioner to stop working in the middle of the summer. To help prevent that, you’re going to want to make sure it’s well-maintained. A little bit of work to keep it clean and free of dirt or debris can go a long way toward helping it last longer and preventing it from breaking down when you need it the most. Use the following tips to make sure your air conditioner is in good shape. 

Change the Filter Regularly

The number one way to keep your air conditioner in good shape is to change the filter regularly. Professional maintenance on your AC unit will help keep it in good shape, but if the filter is dirty, it’s going to work too hard to stay clean and you’ll end up with an air conditioner that struggles to keep the home cool. Follow manufacturer directions to make sure you’re replacing the filter often enough for your home and keep in mind that homes with pets may need to change it more frequently. 

Clean the Coils

It is important to clean the coils on the outdoor unit to keep them free from dust and debris. A vacuum can be used inside the unit and a hose can work well to wash down the coils from the outside. Be careful to avoid electrical issues when using water by turning the unit off and letting it dry before turning it back on. Also be careful to avoid high pressure, as this can bend the coil fins, which will prevent airflow around the unit. 

Clear Any Drain Clogs

Inspect the drains regularly to make sure there aren’t any clogs. A piece of wire stuck into the drain can clear most small clogs and ensure the unit can drain properly. Larger clogs may need to be removed by using water through the drain or a shopvac on the exit of the drain to pull them out. Always use caution when clearing the drain to prevent damaging the pipes, as this can lead to costly repairs. 

Inspect the Thermostat

Take the time to inspect the thermostat regularly and make sure it’s working properly. It should turn on and off according to the schedule you’ve set or automatically turn on when the home gets too hot. If it’s not turning on, turning on and off too fast, or the display is no longer working, it may be time to look into upgrading to a new thermostat. Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat so you can control the temperature from your phone. 

Keep Outdoor Unit Clear

Throughout the year, keep an eye on the exterior unit to ensure it is clear. Shrubs, grass, plants, fencing, and more should be at least a foot away from the exterior of the unit to prevent damage and ensure there is plenty of airflow around the unit. Check manufacturer recommendations to make sure you have enough clear space around the unit so it will work properly. 

Keeping your air conditioner in good shape can help prevent it from breaking down. The above maintenance tasks are ones you can do yourself, but there may be other tasks needed to keep your unit running. Schedule a maintenance service to have the entire unit inspected and maintained, so you know the AC unit will continue working all summer long.