Your air conditioner is a pretty complex system—but it has a simple purpose: to keep you comfortable! Regular maintenance will keep your A/C working efficiently.
Replace Filters
Your HVAC system is “conditioning” inside air that has come in from outside and passed through a filter to remove particles and allergens. Naturally, the filter clogs over time and should be replaced (usually every 1-3 months). Good airflow allows the system to “breathe” and keeps it running efficiently (which is great for the life of the A/C unit and your utility bills.
Clean and Maintain Coils
An air conditioner has two coils where heat is transferred: the evaporator coil inside your home that removes heat from the incoming air, and the condenser coil outside that helps in exhausting that heat back into the outdoor air. Both are subject to buildup of dirt and contaminants, and the inside coil can also harbor bacteria and fungi! Outdoors, dusty environments, nearby plant life, and adjacent dryer vents can all be sources of damaging dirt. Regular cleaning and maintenance prolongs the life of the system and keeps your indoor air quality healthy. And to sanitize your system from scary bacterial or fungal growth, consider having a UV germicidal air purifier installed.
Also check that all the thin aluminum fins on the coils are straight and evenly spaced so that airflow doesn’t get reduced or blocked. A special tool called a “fin comb” is available, or you can get by temporarily with a carefully wielded butter knife.
Clear Drains
When heat is constantly transferred between warmer and cooler air, a significant amount of water is produced (think about a drinking glass that “sweats”—water condenses as the cold glass sits out in warm air). Keep water flowing freely by cleaning out the drain channels, and it’ll keep water from seeping elsewhere and causing damage.
Professional Maintenance
You’ve made a significant investment in your indoor comfort with an air conditioning system. Some maintenance is simple, while other types come with risks that you may feel more comfortable entrusting to an experienced and licensed contractor. It’s important to hire a professional that complies with the numerous government regulations associated with HVAC systems. Beyond the basics, we also recommend (and offer) an extensive 24-point inspection so customers can be confident their system is running at its best. And for maintenance and repair costs, we provide a cost estimate free of charge.
Your air conditioner works hard to keep you cool. Regular cleaning and maintenance keeps it in peak performance to make sure you stay cool!
