Many homeowners don’t think about their air conditioner until it breaks. However, there are many things you can do to keep it working optimally with minimal disruptions. Read on to learn what you can do at home to keep your AC unit running efficiently and when to seek help from a professional AC maintenance technician.
External AC Maintenance
Most air conditioners are composed of two central units: the outdoor and indoor units. Your outdoor unit houses the AC condenser, which cools air blown inside and pulls warm air out of your house to produce the desired temperature. It’s variably located behind the house, in the garage, or in the attic.
Since the condenser is often outside, it accumulates debris and dust in and around the unit. This poses a risk to indoor air quality and should be cleaned semi-regularly. Simply wipe down the condenser fins with a damp rag, being careful not to apply too much pressure. Use a vacuum for the finer debris between fins. Check the fans’ lubrication and apply a few drops of electric motor oil if necessary.
Internal AC Maintenance
The evaporator coil is a central component that experiences excessive use, which causes a quick accumulation of dust and debris. Start cleaning it with a soft brush, removing larger debris, then apply a no-rinse coil cleaner to remove stubborn deposits or mild detergents and water.
When the evaporator drain gets clogged, it can cause flooding, system interruptions, and foul odors to emanate from the air conditioner. Drains are located inside or outside and can be cleared of debris with a wet/dry vacuum cleaner. Keeping the evaporator drain clean is essential for preventing mold and algae from impairing air quality.
Finally, the blower filter keeps your air quality healthy by catching dust, dander, and debris. Over time, these filters become clogged, forcing your AC unit to work harder to modulate your home temperature. Regularly changing the air conditioner filter (approximately every two months) will keep your AC working optimally and your energy bills low.
Professional AC Maintenance
While DIY maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your air conditioner, professional service is essential for maximizing functionality and ensuring safe, effective AC maintenance. An HVAC expert can thoroughly inspect your system and compare its functionality to industry standards. They can often catch minor, unnoticeable issues before they become costly problems. If your unit is beyond repair, they can make all measurements to ensure a fitting replacement.
If electrical maintenance is involved, it’s best to trust an AC maintenance expert to prevent injuries or costly mistakes. They have the advanced tools to check electrical connections and ensure proper calibration between your air conditioner and thermostat. As handy as you may be, a mistake in wiring can jack up the cost of future repairs.
Professional air conditioner maintenance guarantees comprehensive services that even the savviest DIY homeowners will struggle to compete with. They can replace components to keep your air conditioner working smoothly, with insider recommendations on advanced products. An AC maintenance company can also provide annual tune-ups to prepare your system for the coming season, minimizing wear and tear.
Keep your home cool with professional AC maintenance from ProFlo! We offer home and business owners prompt, diligent, and reliable HVAC services. Contact us to schedule an in-home consultation and receive a free estimate today.
