Tips on AC Unit Maintenance You Can Do to Keep Your Unit Running

Knowing you’re ready to invest in your AC’s health and longevity this year is the first step. The second step is knowing where to start. But how much power do homeowners really have over their AC’s performance? Here is a look at some basic AC maintenance tips to help keep your system running when you need it most.

Preventing Clogged Drains

An often overlooked aspect of AC maintenance is preventing clogged drainage lines. A blocked drain can lead to serious issues, including water backing up that could damage your home. You can help avoid this by checking the drain regularly. It’s usually located in the back of your AC and looks like your average PVC pipe.

To maintain your drain line, contact a professional for AC maintenance at least once or twice a year, depending on how frequently you use your system. You can also flush your HVAC’s drain line with a mixture of vinegar and water to lift any debris stuck in the line and prevent clogs.

But remember that this isn’t a substitute for professional services. Instead, you can look at it as a way to prevent buildup between maintenance visits.

Keeping Coils Clean

Dirty evaporator and condenser coils are another issue that you can address with some light maintenance. Dirt and grime stuck to your coils will cause your HVAC to work harder, making it less efficient and costing you a fortune in energy expenses. It can even cause your system to freeze over.

Combat this by ensuring there aren’t leaves or debris brushing up against the coils. The goal should be to leave about two feet around the system for proper airflow. Professional maintenance will address your coils, keeping them clean and preventing them from freezing.

Clean the Air Filter

The last tip is also the easiest — don’t forget to clean or swap out your air filter. Check on it at least once a month, and aim to clean or change it as frequently as you need to. Changing your air filter regularly will help to keep your indoor coil from clogging up and restricting air flow which can cause your coil to freeze over. This might be more often if you have an older system, pets, or AC inefficiencies. AC experts will check your air filter during their maintenance visit and clean it for you.