A Year-Round Guide To AC Maintenance

Maintaining your air conditioning (AC) system efficiently throughout the year is crucial to ensure it operates effectively, keeps energy costs down, and extends the lifespan of the unit.

Here is a detailed, year-round guide to AC maintenance that homeowners can follow to keep their systems in top condition.

Spring: Preparation for Summer

Inspect and Clean the Exterior Unit: After winter, check the outdoor unit for any debris, leaves, and dirt that may have accumulated around it. Clear any obstructions to ensure adequate airflow, which is vital for efficient operation.

Schedule Professional Servicing: Early spring is the ideal time for a professional HVAC technician to perform a thorough inspection (and service) of your AC system. This includes checking the refrigerant levels, testing the system controls, and ensuring the evaporator and condenser coils are clean and functioning correctly.

Change or Clean Air Filters: Start the season by replacing or cleaning the air filters, which should be done every 30-90 days depending on usage and type of filter. Clean filters improve air quality and increase the efficiency of the AC unit.

Test the System: Before the weather heats up, turn on your AC to check if it’s cooling effectively. Listen for any unusual noises and keep checking for any unusual odors. If anything seems out of the ordinary, contact a professional air conditioner service.

Summer: Peak Usage Time

Monitor Performance: Throughout the hottest months, keep an eye on your AC’s performance. Issues like short cycling or inconsistent cooling can indicate problems that might require professional attention.

Keep the Area Around the Unit Clear: Regularly ensure that the area around your outdoor unit remains clear of plants, shrubs, and debris. This clearance supports optimal airflow and efficiency.

Check and Clean Air Filters Regularly: Due to higher usage, check your air filters more frequently during summer months. Clean or replace them as needed to ensure efficient operation.

Consider Energy Efficient Practices: Utilize curtains, blinds, and shades during the hottest parts of the day to reduce the cooling load on your AC and save energy.

Fall: Winding Down

Prepare for End of Season: As temperatures start to drop, use this time to give your AC system a break. Open windows and use fans when possible to help extend the life of your system.

Cover the Outdoor Unit: Once you stop using the AC, consider covering the outdoor unit to protect it from debris falling in and harsh weather conditions over the fall and winter months. However, ensure the cover is breathable to avoid moisture accumulation, which can lead to corrosion and other issues.

Schedule End-of-Season Maintenance: If you haven’t had your AC serviced, fall is a good time for a professional to check your system and perform any necessary repairs before the winter.

Winter: Off Season

Regular Checks: Even if the AC is not in use, periodically check the outdoor unit for ice, snow, and debris accumulation. Remove any buildup to protect the unit.

Maintain the Indoor Unit: Even though the AC isn’t running, you can still maintain the indoor parts of your system. This includes cleaning around air vents and registers and ensuring that your thermostat is functioning correctly.

Plan for Upgrades: If your system is old or has been problematic, winter is a good time to consider upgrades or replacement, allowing you to plan and budget for installation before the heat returns.

By following this year-round AC maintenance guide, homeowners can ensure their system remains efficient and effective, reducing the likelihood of breakdowns and costly repairs while also improving home comfort and air quality.