Before the heat starts rising, people should gear up to combat it by ensuring their air conditioners are top-notch. Like any other household appliance, air conditioning units require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance, extending their lifespan and saving you money on energy bills.
While it’s essential to have a professional technician perform annual maintenance, there are various tasks homeowners can do themselves to maintain their units throughout the season.
In this article, we will explore some of the do-it-yourself (DIY) air conditioner maintenance tips that can help you keep your home cool and comfortable during the hot Canadian summer months.
1. Regularly Change or Clean Your Air Filter
The most crucial DIY maintenance task for your air conditioner is regularly checking, cleaning, or replacing the air filter. A dirty filter can impede airflow, reduce your unit’s efficiency, and even cause the system to fail prematurely.
Ideally, you should check your filter monthly and clean or replace it as needed. During heavy use periods like the summer, it’s best to change or clean the filter every 30 to 60 days. If you have pets or allergies, you may need to change them more frequently.
To clean or replace your air filter, follow these steps:
- Turn off your air conditioner and disconnect the power source.
- Locate the filter, typically found in the return air vent or the air handler cabinet.
- Remove the filter and inspect it for dirt and debris. If it’s disposable, replace it with a new one. If washable, clean it with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner and rinse it with water.
- Allow it to dry completely before reinstalling it.
2. Keep the Outdoor Condenser Unit Clean and Clear
The outdoor condenser unit is responsible for expelling heat from your home. To ensure optimal performance, keeping the area around the unit clean and free of debris is essential. Here’s how to do it:
- Remove any leaves, branches, or other debris from the top and sides of the unit.
- Trim any bushes or plants at least 2 feet from the unit to ensure proper airflow.
- Remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the condenser fins with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner. Be gentle, as the fins can be easily damaged.
- Straighten any bent fins with a fin comb, which can be purchased at a local hardware store.
3. Clean the Indoor Evaporator Coil
The indoor evaporator coil is responsible for absorbing heat from your home’s air. Over time, dust and debris can accumulate on the coil, reducing its efficiency. To clean the coil, follow these steps:
- Turn off your air conditioner and disconnect the power source.
- Locate the evaporator coil, typically found in the air handler cabinet or the indoor unit of a ductless system.
- Remove the access panel and carefully clean the coil with a soft brush, vacuum cleaner, or coil cleaner spray. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions if you use a coil cleaner.
- After cleaning, close the access panel and restore power to the unit.
4. Inspect and Clean the Condensate Drain Line
The condensate drain line removes moisture your air conditioner produces during the cooling process. A clogged drain line can cause water damage, mould growth, and reduced efficiency. To inspect and clean the line, follow these steps:
- Locate the condensate drain line, typically a PVC pipe near the indoor unit.
- Inspect the line for any signs of clogging or leaks.
- To clean the line, gently insert a long, flexible brush or a wet/dry vacuum hose into the pipe to remove debris or buildup.
5. Perform a Thermostat Check
Lastly, ensure your thermostat is functioning correctly and set to the appropriate temperature. If you have an older, mercury-based thermostat, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for improved efficiency and energy savings.
Summary
By performing these simple DIY maintenance tasks, you can help keep your air conditioner running smoothly and efficiently all summer.
However, it’s essential to remember that some maintenance tasks, like checking the refrigerant levels, should only be performed by a licensed professional.
Schedule an annual maintenance visit with a qualified HVAC technician for a complete system check and tune-up.
If you’re looking for AC maintenance in Mississauga, we can help you. Furnace Home King Services is a heating and cooling company that puts its customers first! With over 43 years of experience, you can count on us to recommend the best for your space. Start today by getting a quote online!