Follow these air conditioner tune-up tips to ensure your unit works on that first hot day of the year.
What's the Best Time of Year to Service Your AC Unit?
Experts suggest performing air conditioning service once a year (the same goes for heating). Spring is the best time. However, to ensure your system continues to work efficiently, you need to do some regular maintenance.
Ways to Service Your Air Conditioner Yourself
Luckily, you don't always need a professional to perform an air conditioner checkup. There are a few things you can DIY before calling an expert.
1. Change the air filter.
Changing the air filter is one of the most important and easiest ways to maintain your unit—whether it’s a central HVAC system or a ductless air conditioner. Thankfully, you don’t need a professional for this quick and easy air conditioning maintenance task. Simply locate your unit’s filter slot, slide out the old filter, and insert the new one, taking note of the direction of the airflow and which side of the filter needs to face out. Be sure to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for correct filter size and steps for properly replacing the filter.
Wondering which type to buy and how often to change the air filter? Filters come in different “strengths,” depending on how filtered you want the air to be in your home. And generally, you should replace the air filter about every three months.
However, if you have pets, you may consider replacing the filter every month as well as purchasing a filter with a higher rating—the higher the number, the more it filters the air. The same rule applies if you have family members that may be sensitive to dust and other allergens.
2. Do some spring cleaning.
The new filter is in, so it’s time to check a few more items off your DIY AC maintenance list. First, make sure all the indoor vents are clean. Next, pour a cup of bleach mixed with water down the drain of the outside unit to prevent mold and algae buildup. Then, ensure the unit
- is on a level surface.
- doesn’t have any debris, such as leaves, pollen, or twigs, clogging it up.
- has at least two feet of clearance around it.
- has the proper amount of good-quality insulation around the refrigerant lines.
Note: For safety reasons, this home air conditioning service step should be done without attempting to open the outside unit. If you can’t get it clean without taking it apart, call on a professional to do the dirty work.
