Maintaining your air conditioning unit should be one of your household priorities to ensure it will run smoothly for years to come. Experts recommend having your AC serviced at least once a year for maintenance, but the ideal frequency is twice a year.
When you’re hiring AC maintenance services, it’s best to do it right before the seasons change. Doing this ensures that your air conditioner is working properly by the time the weather becomes too hot. That being said, there are things you can do at home to keep up the maintenance of your AC unit. Taking up these practices will do a lot to ensure that it will provide the cold air you need even at the peak of summer.
Here’s what you can do:
1. Clean the Air Filters
Regularly cleaning or replacing your air filters is an excellent habit to take up if you want to extend the longevity of your AC unit. If your air filter is washable, you don’t have to replace it as long as you clean it every two or three months.
If the air filter is too dirty, it could affect the performance of your air conditioner. If you feel like your unit isn’t cooling a room properly, you probably need to clean your air filters.
2. Keep the Area Around the Condenser Unit Clear
Your air conditioner’s condenser unit needs space to breathe, which is why you should keep that area clear. Avoid placing any plants or other belongings near the condenser unit and keep it clear of debris.
Every once in a while, make sure nothing is blocking the air circulation. You can incorporate this habit into your regular yard work routine so that you don’t forget to do it.
3. Clean the Condenser Unit
The condenser unit also needs to be cleaned because it can be prone to collecting dryer lint, mold, mildew, or other harmful particles. If you’re not cleaning your condenser unit regularly, it could affect the lifespan of your air conditioner.
Make sure to avoid using pressure washers because this could damage the condenser. Instead, use a hose that emits a gentle stream of water.
4. Check the Drain Lines
Your air conditioner’s drain lines also need maintenance, so it’s best to check them regularly. The drain lines are responsible for keeping your AC unit from flooding your home or causing a water backup. They also keep your air conditioner from spewing unclean air into your home.
To make sure these are working correctly, clear all nearby debris, mold, algae, or even pests. If you live in a humid climate, you may need to get these checked regularly by hiring professional AC services.
Conclusion
Maintaining your air conditioner is essential if you want to avoid spending a lot of money on a new unit every other year. By following the tips mentioned above, you can significantly prolong your unit’s lifespan and improve its performance. You won’t even have to worry about whether or not your air conditioner is going to cool down a room properly.
That being said, it’s essential to hire professional AC services at least once a year to ensure your unit is getting the proper care beyond what you can do at home.
Contact Mainline Heating and Air for professional air conditioning services in Birmingham, Pelham, Alabaster, and Jefferson county areas. Our team ensures only the best quality services for all our clients.
