The Dos and Don’ts of AC Maintenance

The AC unit is an essential part of your home. Keep it running in tip-top shape, and you’ll stay cool all summer long. However, with regular use comes the need for maintenance. Generally, maintaining an AC unit isn’t hard, but there are certain precautions that must be taken. Neglecting even one step could cause damage or reduce efficiency.

To avoid these problems, it would be best to engage the services of a reliable AC repair company that knows how to take care of your air conditioning unit.

What Is AC Maintenance?

AC maintenance is vital to keeping your air conditioning unit running effectively. It involves regular clean-up, inspection, repair, and replacement of parts when necessary. Doing so not only helps keep the system functioning optimally but also reduces energy consumption and increases its life span. In addition, regular AC maintenance can help reduce costly repairs in the future.

Maintenance Do’s

The following are some of the things you should be doing as part of your AC maintenance routine:

1. Clean the Air Filter

Regularly cleaning your AC’s filter keeps the unit in tip-top shape. In addition to keeping your air conditioning unit running smoothly, a clean filter can also help reduce energy costs by allowing air to flow more freely through the system. It’s recommended that filters be changed every two months, but if you have pets or are in an area where the amount of dust pollen is high, changing them even more frequently could be beneficial.

2. Clean The Outside Coils

It’s also important to keep the outside coils of your air conditioning unit clean. It will help ensure your AC runs efficiently, as dirt and debris can clog up its inner workings. Wipe off dirt from the coils with a cloth regularly. If more stubborn buildup is left, gently scrub it away with a soft brush. Once done cleaning, turn the power supply back on and check for any signs of leaks or other problems before running your air conditioner fully.

3. Change The Thermostat Batteries If Necessary

The thermostat is an important part of your air conditioning system because it regulates the temperature and controls the on/off cycles of your AC unit. Many thermostats are battery-powered, and if the batteries run out of power, it’ll no longer function properly. It’ll also potentially lead to an air conditioning system malfunction. It’s critical to check and replace the batteries in your thermostat regularly, especially if you’re using a thermostat that potentially consumes more battery life. Typically, batteries need to be changed annually or every other year, depending on the thermostat model. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions before proceeding.

4. Inspect Your AC’s Ducts

Ducts are the pathways through which air travels to and from your AC. It’s crucial to inspect these ducts regularly as well. They should be free of any leak that might affect airflow. When air is leaking, don’t repair the unit yourself. Call a professional to avoid further damage.

Maintenance Don’t

It’s also important to know what to avoid when maintaining your air-conditioning unit. Here are some of them:

1. Don’t Apply Water To Clean The Inner Workings Of The Air Conditioning Unit

It should also go without saying that water and electricity don’t mix well. Therefore, never applying any liquid or spray directly onto your AC unit is vital. Doing so could be dangerous if the water seeps into any electrical components within the system. If you need to clean the surface of the air-conditioner, use a damp cloth instead to wipe away dirt and debris gently.

2. Don’t Try To DIY The Repair Of Your AC System

It’s highly recommended not to try DIY repair your AC system. Attempting repairs on your own can be dangerous, and it could even void the manufacturer’s warranty. Instead, you should always contact the manufacturer or a third-party professional to fix the problem for you.

3. Don’t Keep Your Air Conditioning Running For 24 Hours

Don’t keep your AC running constantly. It can cause it to overwork and become inefficient, leading to higher electricity bills and costly repairs. Instead, turn it off when you don’t need it so it doesn’t run all day. It’s also a good idea to adjust the AC temperature depending on the environment. For instance, during the summer months, set the AC to a few degrees lower than usual for most of the day, then turn it higher at night before bed. That way, your air conditioner can keep up with changing temperatures while conserving energy.

Conclusion

Maintaining your air-conditioning unit is important to keep it running efficiently and avoid costly repairs. The dos and don’ts discussed in this article should help you get the most out of your AC system. Basic maintenance procedures such as cleaning the filter or inspecting ducts can go a long way in extending the AC’s life. However, any repair must be left to the experts to prevent the problem from worsening.