Imagine the horrors of going through the scorching summer days without a well-functioning AC unit. It not only makes you uncomfortable but unproductive as well, be it at home or in the office. No wonder shilly-shallying about air conditioner maintenance can take its toll in more ways than one. You surely wouldn’t want to invite higher utility bills and frequent repairs that can dent your wallet, right? A poorly maintained AC unit consumes more energy and does not even ensure effective cooling.
If you’re not sure about what regular AC maintenance entails, keep reading as we deep-dive into the specifics! The following checklist is no Herculean task, but it can go a long way in enabling the AC to function optimally and have greater longevity, too.
Here is the Checklist!
As a homeowner, you’ll naturally not have the right set of tools/equipment or even the skills required for all-encompassing AC maintenance. However, some of these might be doable for you; for others, it’s recommended that you call a professional AC technician.
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Replacement of Air Filter:
A critical component of an AC unit, air filters help trap dust, dirt, and other particles affecting air quality. If these filters get clogged with debris over time, it will hamper the airflow, and your AC will have to work harder to maintain the temperature. Thus, besides air conditioner cleaning, replacing your air filter every month is essential to avoid premature wear and tear, increased energy consumption, and higher utility bills. Most people opt for the fiberglass filter, which is the most affordable option; pleated filters are more effective but also come at a higher cost. High-efficiency filters are even better but also the costliest.
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Cleaning the Evaporator Coil:
The evaporator coil is responsible for taking away heat from the air to keep your indoor space cool and comfortable. Over time, it gets coated with dust, dirt, and other debris, thus compromising the unit’s efficiency. Call a professional technician to check the evaporator coil regularly and clean it if required. The latter involves spraying water and non-rinse cleaning agents on the coil to eliminate the accumulated dust and dirt. A skilled air conditioning technician will know how to do this process gently and remove any obstructions or debris around the area of the coil.
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Inspection of the Condenser Coil:
The heat your indoor space releases must be sent outdoors to keep the room cool, right? The condenser coil does just that! Since it is located in the outdoor unit, it is prone to dust and debris accumulation. An experienced technician can remove the debris and clean it thoroughly. Regular inspection and cleaning is a must, or it can lead to even system breakdowns. The area around the coil should also be cleared to facilitate airflow and boost the unit’s overall efficiency.
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Clearing the Condensate Drain Line:
The cooling process of your air conditioner involves the removal of excess moisture from the unit, and the condensate drain line is responsible for that. If the drain line gets clogged with dirt, debris, or algae, it can lead to overflow. A skilled technician uses a wet/dry vacuum or a pipe cleaner to get rid of blockages. It’s important to do this gently, as it might be prone to damage.
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Lubrication of Moving Parts:
moving parts in AC units, such as the fan and condenser motor, need proper lubrication to function effectively. Friction, coupled with wear and tear, can be avoided by applying lubricant to the moving parts. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations to know what type of lubricant you should use. This lubrication should be done once a year according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
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Checking Electrical Connections:
electrical connections in an AC unit often become loose, thanks to temperature changes, vibration, and other factors. It goes without saying how risky it can be to leave loose electrical connections; they can lead to electrical shorts that not only put your unit at stake but also leave room for fire hazards. Needless to say, it also leads to increased energy consumption. You should have a trained technician inspect the connections regularly to ensure they are tight and secure. If any connection is loose, it should be tightened immediately to keep further damage at bay.
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Testing of Thermostat Accuracy:
The thermostat is concerned with regulating the temperature of the room/space. If the thermostat does not function properly, it might cause the AC unit to overwork, paving the way for greater energy consumption, lower efficiency, and higher utility bills. The technician can test your thermostat’s accuracy and either re-calibrate or replace it.
It goes without saying regular AC cleaning and maintenance is an absolute necessity to maintain a comfortable indoor environment, whether you’re working or relaxing. The checklist mentioned above can be thoroughly and correctly implemented only by an expert professional who is equipped with the technical know-how and access to advanced tools and equipment.
Get in touch with a reliable service provider for regular inspections, cleanings, and tune-ups, as they can do such jobs following proper safety protocols, besides being quicker, smoother, and more efficient. As a layperson, trying your hand at such maintenance approaches is not advisable, or you may do more harm than good.
Hiring a technician saves time and effort and is also a hassle-free process to maintain our AC units in their best condition. Besides, failure to comply with the requirements of the AC warranty can render it null and void, and in case you’ll have to bear the cost of breakdowns or other complications. Why take the chance? Call a professional today and let them identify and fix the potential problems.