How to Care for an Air Conditioner Unit in the Summer

Air conditioners have become a necessity rather than a luxury for every household.

Air conditioners have become a necessity rather than a luxury for every household. People rely heavily on their air conditioning units to keep their homes cool and comfortable and get much-needed relief from the high heat and humidity during summers. As the temperatures begin to soar, the last thing any property owner would want is for their air conditioner to fail.

Air conditioners constantly run throughout the summer and require proper care and upkeep to function effectively. Neglecting necessary cleaning and maintenance impacts the air conditioner’s performance, lifespan, and energy efficiency.

Here are a few summer air conditioner tips to ensure the system stays in good condition and provides the necessary comfort and energy savings throughout the warm weather:

Give the outdoor unit a thorough clean

Dirt and debris can find their way into an air conditioner unit, impacting efficiency. Turn off the power source and remove any leaves, dead plants, and other debris surrounding the system. Ensure the area around the unit stays clear to allow proper airflow. To clean the outdoor unit from the inside, unscrew the cover to remove any visible debris and use a garden hose to eliminate dirt and grime from the sides.

Clean and replace the filters regularly

AC filters get dirty and clogged over time. Clogged air filters restrict airflow, reduce system efficiency, lead to poor indoor air quality, and cause the system to shut down completely. Check the filters every month during summer and clean or replace dirty filters as needed. Regular filter cleaning or replacement is the best way to keep the air conditioner functioning safely and optimally during summer.

Inspect and clean the coils

The evaporator and condenser coils accumulate dirt and dust over time. While a dirty evaporator coil reduces airflow and lowers the ability to absorb heat, dirty condenser coils lead to poor system performance, increased energy consumption, and premature component or system failure. Dust and clean the evaporator coil with a soft-bristled brush or a microfiber cloth. Use gentle pressure to remove dirt and debris from the condenser coils.

Ensure the drain lines are clean

Dirt, mold, and algae can clog the air conditioner drain lines, which can cause water damage and harmful bacterial growth. Ensure the drain is clear by running a wire through it. If there is a clog, call a professional to do the needful.

Clean and comb the coil fins

The condenser and evaporator fins can get clogged with dirt and dust. Dirty and bent fins can impact the system’s airflow. Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe the fins, and use a fin comb to get the bent fins back to their original condition.

Check the unit for leaks and other damages

Inspect the air conditioner ductwork, wiring, insulation, AC pad, and refrigerant lines for leaks and other damages. Regular inspections can help identify and fix issues before they become major expenses.

Schedule an annual tune-up

The best way to keep the air conditioner in top shape throughout the summer is to hire a local company for an annual tune-up. A trained and experienced AC technician will clean and inspect the system thoroughly to ensure it functions correctly, perform necessary repairs, and give suggestions to avoid costly issues down the road.

Fix My Air DFW of Fort Worth specializes in residential and commercial HVAC services including routine maintenance, installation, and repair. All makes/models. Call us at 817-439-9811