Why You Should Maintain Your AC
A well-maintained AC will operate more efficiently, reducing your home’s carbon footprint and slashing your cooling bills. Regularly cleaning or replacing your air filter is the quickest way to save money and energy, and it’s a simple task you can do without any specialized equipment or tools.
Many other components of your air conditioning system also require attention, such as the condenser and evaporator coils, condensate drains and ductwork (if applicable). If you’re relatively handy around the house, you may want to tackle some of these responsibilities yourself. For example, if you have an AC unit located outside your home, keeping the area around it clean and clear of dirt and fallen leaves or branches is a straightforward chore that you can quickly complete with a broom or leaf blower.
However, specific aspects of HVAC maintenance can be dangerous when performed by an untrained or inexperienced person, so you may want to call a licensed professional. Some tasks an HVAC technician can perform during preventive maintenance include:
- Checking the refrigerant and testing for any leaks
- Inspecting the wiring and tightening it if necessary
- Sealing duct leakage in central air systems
- Measuring airflow through the evaporator coil
- Checking belts for any signs of wear and tear
- Verifying the electrical control sequence
- Replacing or straightening bent coil fins
- Ensuring the thermostat has an accurate temperature reading