Seasonal Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips

Seasonal Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips

Temperatures are climbing, and you’ve undoubtedly used your air conditioner already this year. Do you know how to keep your air conditioner in good working order and prevent unexpected breakdowns?

Properly maintaining your AC is highly recommended. In addition to helping you avoid unexpected HVAC repairs, keeping up with routine maintenance can help you lower your utility bills.

As the temperatures continue to rise, here are four tips that will help you avoid unpleasant surprises with your air conditioner this summer.

Replace Your Air Filter

Prior to the summer season, you need to make sure your filter is clean and free of debris. Depending on the type of air filter and how often you’re supposed to replace it, you likely should replace it every spring.

Not sure if your filter needs to be replaced? Try the light test. Hold the filter up to the light to see if the rays pass through. If you can’t see light through the filter, you definitely need to replace it.

When your filter is dirty, it decreases the efficiency of your air conditioner. In addition to preventing the unit from cooling as it should, it can lead to premature system failure.

Clean the Condenser Coils and Evaporator

Prior to cleaning your air conditioner, make sure the power is turned off at the breaker box. To access the coils, you’ll have to remove the front cover. Use a brush or dry cloth to carefully clean the inside of the unit.

Prep the Outdoor Unit

Take a look at the outdoor part of your air conditioner. If there are any leaves or debris around it, get rid of it to improve airflow and energy efficiency. Make sure there is at least 2 feet of clearance around the outdoor unit to ensure that it has plenty of room to breathe.

If you’re using landscaping or some type of container to disguise the outdoor unit, make sure there is plenty of space around it and that nothing is getting in the way of proper operation.

Schedule a Professional Tune-up

While there are things you can do yourself to get your air conditioner ready for summer, we always recommend hiring a professional. Regular air condition tune-ups can extend the life of the system and allow you to take care of minor air conditioning repairs before the problem becomes major.

At Triple Service, we specialize in North Central Illinois air conditioning maintenance. To schedule service in the Mendota area, please call!