• Clean or replace your air filter every month.
  • The best replacement air filters to buy are electrostatic ones. If you plan on cleaning your air filter, first vacuum it with the brush hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner. Then, soak the air filter in a cleaning solution of equal parts vinegar and water. Last, remove it from the solution and air-dry it before putting it back into the unit.

  • Keep the outdoor AC unit free of vegetation. Clear away vegetation as it grows and builds up along the sides and top of the unit. When cutting your lawn, aim grass clippings away from the unit. Be sure to regularly check AC vents to prevent any clogs caused by unwanted debris.
  • Keep your outdoor air conditioning unit in the shade. A shaded AC unit performs more efficiently than one in the sun. The air flowing into your home from a shaded unit is five to six degrees cooler.
  • Lubricate condenser fan motors once a year and clean the fans as needed to improve the efficiency of air circulation. (performed by your HVAC technician during yearly tune-ups)
  • Replace the water in the water pan, located at the bottom of the cooler housing. Dirty water ends up clogging water passages, building upon pads, and damaging other air conditioning components.
  • Check evaporator coils. Dirty evaporator coils hinder an air conditioner’s ability to cool the air that’s flowing through the unit. Clean the internal coils by removing the front panel of the AC unit and using the brush hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner to gently remove dust and other dirt build-up. Overall, dirty or worn components hinder your air conditioner’s ability to cool your home. (performed by your HVAC technician during yearly tune-ups)

There are other warning signs to be aware of when determining the right time for air conditioning maintenance or repairs. For example, pay attention to irregular noises as signals of poor operation. In older air conditioners, squealing noises are signs of slipped belts, which may be retensioned or replaced. Clicking sounds indicate obstructed blades. If a blade is bent, be sure to install a replacement.

A little AC maintenance goes a long way. A properly functioning air conditioning unit cuts down on utility bills and prevents unexpected repairs.

Follow the tips above to perform an air conditioner tune-up service yourself. If the problem plaguing your unit is difficult to pinpoint, you must seek service advice from our experts.

If you’re looking for more tips and tricks to keep your air conditioning unit humming through the summer heat, contact the On Time Experts! Your very own Comfort Consultant is standing by to help.

or

Call: 469-336-3435.

Meet the Author
Randy Kelley
Randy Kelley

Owner

company icon