A working air conditioning unit in the summer is invaluable. Without another way to generate airflow, you'll find yourself hot, sweaty, and miserable.
Fortunately, with just a little bit of maintenance, you can make sure that your unit is running in tip-top shape all year long, but especially during those hot summer months when you need it the most. Here are a few ways you can make sure your unit is maintained properly. Many of the things on this list are items you can do yourself, but if you feel uncomfortable at any point, call a company that specializes in residential AC services to help.
Change the Filters
Experts are divided on exactly how frequently this is necessary, but most recommend every 2–3 months, depending on the type of air filter you have. If you have a large home or one with a lot of pets, you'll most likely need to change it more frequently. Unfortunately, this is one of those things that can be hard to remember, since your AC unit will still run even with a dirty filter, but you'll definitely notice it in your energy bill. Air filters may also become dirtier during the summer because of the buildup accumulated during the pollen-heavy spring.
Clear the Debris
Find your AC unit and clear all the debris that may have accumulated nearby: grass, trash, leaves, etc. You want at least three feet minimum on every side to ensure that proper airflow is getting into the unit; otherwise, your unit will have to work harder to do its job. Most residential AC units are on the outside, but some may have window units in the individual rooms that are worth checking too. Ensure that they're also free of dust and dirt that may be accumulating on the coils. If necessary, unplug the unit for a few minutes as you wipe it down.
Adjust the Thermostat
It's tempting to want to simply turn down the thermostat on your unit as far as it will go, but this could create issues later, especially if you have a really hot summer. Be kind to your AC unit by keeping it tuned in to a reasonable temperature, and set it even higher if you're planning on going vacation (but not completely off). If you use a programmable thermostat, set it to a higher temperature while you're gone all day at work, and revert back to a more comfortable temperature before you return.
For more information, contact a residential AC service in your area.
