Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips

Proper maintenance is necessary for your home's central air conditioning system to last as long as possible. Caring for your unit properly will extend its life, keep energy costs down, and keep your system running at peak performance.

To keep your central air conditioner system in top-performing condition, follow these tips:

- Check all of the hoses for leaks at least twice a year. The best times to do this are before you turn on your unit for the summer season and just before you turn it off for the winter. Make sure the condensate tube is draining freely. By checking this, you will be able to catch onto any problems before they get to be too serious for repair.

- Keep the outside compressor as clean as possible. Keep it clear of tall grass and shrubs. Plantings should be at least one foot away from the unit for adequate airflow.

- Change the air filter monthly, particularly during the summer when dust and allergens circulate.

- Vacuum registers and air vents regularly.

- Sealing ducts will save energy and money all year round. Use mastic or sealer rather than plain duct tape, which will dry out and peel off over time.

- Have the ductwork professionally cleaned every few years. This maintenance can extend the life of your air conditioner.

- During the winter months, keep the compressor covered. This protects it from cold weather as well as harsh conditions such as snow and sleet.

- Be sure to keep furniture and drapes away from the registers.

- Raise your thermostat. Each degree of temperature can represent up to 9% savings in cooling costs.

- Keep the unit fan on “AUTO.” It's not necessary to run the fan constantly when the air conditioner is not operating.

- When working around your air conditioner, shut the power off before you start.

Having your entire air conditioning system inspected by a professional service technician is also important. A professional can measure the refrigerant to see if it needs recharging and measure the airflow over the air conditioner's cooling coils. They will also clean and inspect the motor, compressor, air handler, ducts, coils, and air filter. An annual tune-up can reduce your cooling costs by five percent.

Air conditioner maintenance is important to keep your unit running properly and help save energy costs for many years!