Your air conditioner does more than just cool your home in the summer—it helps regulate temperature, support indoor air quality, and keep your space comfortable day and night. But like any system with moving parts, it wears down over time. Without regular upkeep, its efficiency drops and repairs become more frequent. The good news? With a little effort and attention, you can help it last longer and work better without needing to be a professional technician.
This guide offers easy, practical maintenance tips that help you get the most out of your air conditioning system.
1. Change or Clean Your Air Filters Regularly
Air filters trap particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander. When filters are clogged, your system has to push harder to circulate air, which adds stress to its components.
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends checking filters monthly when your AC is getting a lot of use and replacing them at least every three months. If you’ve got pets or your environment is particularly dusty, monthly replacement may be better. A clean filter not only improves airflow but can also cut energy use by 5% to 15%.
You might also think about switching to higher-efficiency filters, like HEPA options, if your system can handle it. These catch finer particles, which can help anyone in your home with allergies.
2. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear and Unobstructed
The outdoor condenser unit needs space and airflow to do its job. If it’s surrounded by weeds, grass, or leaves, it can’t release heat efficiently. That forces the system to run longer than it should.
Clear at least two feet around the unit. Remove any buildup, and rinse dirt off the fins gently with a garden hose—never with high pressure, which can damage the fins. Make it part of your yard routine to check the unit and keep it clear.
Also, make sure water doesn’t collect at the base after rain. Poor drainage can cause damage over time. If you live in an area where foliage builds up quickly, you’ll need to monitor this more often.
3. Clean the Evaporator and Condenser Coils Annually
Even with a clean filter, your AC coils can gather grime. Dirt-covered coils can’t transfer heat well, which means your system has to run longer to achieve the same results.
Energy Star recommends having these coils checked once a year. If you can access them, use a soft brush or a commercial coil cleaner to remove dust and buildup. For tight spots or heavily soiled coils, a technician can handle the job safely.
Clean coils mean your system doesn’t have to overwork, which reduces wear and saves energy. When paired with clean filters, this makes a noticeable difference in performance.
4. Straighten and Maintain Coil Fins
Those thin metal fins on the coils can bend easily. Bent fins block airflow, which cuts efficiency and makes your AC work harder than necessary.
A fin comb is an easy fix—affordable and available at most hardware stores. Straightening the fins helps keep air moving and reduces system strain. After a storm or outdoor project, take a quick look to see if anything needs attention.
If you notice widespread bending or damage, it’s a good idea to bring in a pro to evaluate.
5. Flush and Clear the Condensate Drain Line
As your AC removes moisture from the air, the water runs off through a drain line. If that line clogs up from algae or mold, you could see leaks or even system shutdowns.
Every few months, pour a bit of vinegar mixed with warm water through the line. That’ll help keep it clear. A wet/dry vacuum can also come in handy if the line backs up. If you see water puddling near the unit, don’t wait to check it out.
A clear line means better performance and less chance of water damage in your home.
6. Inspect and Seal Ductwork
If you’ve got leaks in your ductwork, you’re losing cooled air before it ever reaches your rooms. The EPA says anywhere from 20% to 30% of air in a ducted system can be lost this way.
Look for gaps, loose joints, or visible damage in accessible sections of ductwork. Use foil tape or mastic to seal minor leaks. If your ducts pass through places like the attic or basement, consider adding insulation to help hold the temperature.
If your home still feels unevenly cooled or your energy bills seem high, it might be time for a professional duct inspection.
7. Maintain Consistent Thermostat Settings
Constantly changing the thermostat settings can make your AC cycle on and off more often, which puts extra wear on it. Try to keep a steady temperature while you’re home, and let a smart or programmable thermostat take care of adjustments while you’re away.
The Department of Energy suggests 78°F while you’re home and raising the temp when you’re not. Over time, that can cut down your system’s workload and reduce bills.
Smart thermostats also give you insights into how your system runs, helping you spot ways to save energy.
8. Schedule Preventive Maintenance at Least Once a Year
Getting your AC serviced by a pro at least once a year is one of the best things you can do. During a visit, they’ll check refrigerant, clean components, tighten connections, and make sure everything’s running smoothly.
A tune-up in spring gets you ready for the heat ahead. If your HVAC also handles heating, fall service is smart too. Catching small issues early means fewer emergency calls and helps your system last longer.
Many companies offer maintenance plans that take the guesswork out of it and can save you money over time.
9. Investigate Any Unusual Sounds or Odors Promptly
Weird noises or smells usually mean something’s off. Grinding, buzzing, or rattling can point to loose or failing parts. Musty smells could mean mold or mildew is building up somewhere in the system.
If something doesn’t sound or smell right, don’t ignore it. Shutting the system down and calling a technician early can save you from more costly damage later.
These warning signs are your system’s way of telling you it needs help.
10. Reduce System Strain by Improving Home Efficiency
The less work your AC has to do, the longer it will last. Small upgrades, like sealing gaps around doors, installing insulated curtains, or using fans to move air, can make a big difference.
Try to limit the use of heat-producing appliances during the hottest parts of the day. Cooking at night or drying clothes after sundown helps keep indoor temps down naturally.
The more you help your home stay cool, the less your AC has to compensate.
You don’t need special tools or deep HVAC knowledge to help your system last longer. Basic steps like changing filters, cleaning components, sealing ducts, and keeping an eye out for issues can make a real difference.
Want help keeping your AC in top condition? Schedule an appointment with Telford Cooling today. Our team can handle inspections, tune-ups, and custom maintenance plans to fit your home. Let’s make sure your system keeps running strong.
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