2 Maintenance Tasks You Should Not Overlook When You Have a Central Air Conditioning Unit

When you have central air conditioning in your home, it can be easy to forget the unit that is sitting outside. Just like any other part of your house, your A/C unit needs maintenance to keep it running properly and efficiently. Make sure you do not overlook the following maintenance tasks when you have a central air conditioning unit.

1.  Checking and Cleaning the Condenser Coils a Few Times a Season

One recommended maintenance task that you may not be aware of is to check and clean the condenser coils inside of the air conditioning unit a few times each season. The job of the condenser coils is to absorb heat from the air circulating through them to help cool it down.

If dirt and other grime accumulate on the coils, they will have to work harder to transfer the heat. This, in turn, makes your air conditioner work harder to cool your home.

At the beginning of the warm season and a couple of times after that, turn off the power to your A/C unit, remove the top, and check the coils. If you find that they are dirty, use a damp rag to wipe away the filth. While you are doing that, also look for any signs of damage such as dents or cracks that may need professional attention.

2.  Changing or Cleaning the Unit's Air Filter at Least Once a Month

Another vital part of taking care of your A/C unit is changing or cleaning the air filter at least once a month. While you may believe that the filter only helps to improve the air quality of your home by removing dust, pollen, and other allergens, it is also important to the function of the unit itself.

When a filter becomes clogged up, the airflow through the unit is greatly decreased. The motor must work harder to push the air through the system, which will wear it down faster.

Set up a schedule on your calendar once a month to either clean or change out the filter, depending on the type your model uses. If anyone in your household has asthma or severe allergies, you may want to do this chore twice a month.

While taking care of these chores can help make your A/C unit run more efficiently, there are other tasks that should be done by a professional to help ensure a long life for your unit. Contact an HVAC company that offers air conditioning maintenance services near you for more information.