Homeowners want to know how best to care for their investments. Considering that air conditioning and heating systems play such a large roll in overall comfort, system maintenance will ensure absolute running efficiency. Setting aside less than an hour every month to perform a few routine procedures will help keep energy costs down and allow your system to perform at peak efficiency.
STEP 1: Clean or Change Air Filters
Whether your system uses disposable or reusable filters, it is important they be maintained to allow your system to breathe better.
Disposable filters: change every 30 days
Reusable filters: wash every 30 days
Keeping your filter clean will prevent system malfunction, increases in your energy bills, and reductions in the life expectancy of your system. Click here for more information on benefits of high performance filter options that may be available for your system.
STEP 2: Maintain the Outdoor Unit
First, shut the power off to your outdoor air conditioning unit, either at the breaker and/or at the disconnect box. Spray the air conditioner coil down with a hose to clean off any debris. If you have cottonwood trees close by, you may need to do this several times each spring. Trim bushes away 18” from the air conditioner to prevent a restriction of air to the unit. It may be necessary to use professional coil cleaner to remove built up pollution on the coil. Do not use household chemicals that could cause corrosion damage to the coil. It is best to have a professional perform this when needed.
STEP 3: Check the Indoor Unit
Check that there are no water leaks and that the system is draining properly. Turn the unit on and let it run for about 15 minutes, periodically checking for any visible water leaks. Water build-up (due to the condensation on your indoor unit’s plumbing) is nothing to be nervous about. However, if there is a significant accumulation due to a broken, loose or malfunctioning part, your problem could eventually turn into a costly repair. In addition, blockages inside your pipes can also become hazardous to your system. If your system is leaking water in any significant way, call a service technician immediately.
While these three steps will help to keep your system in proper running order, the best way to save money and avoid system malfunctions is professional, seasonal tune-ups. For professional heating and air conditioner service that fixes the problem the first time.
