5 Tips for Maintaining Your AC Unit

During the summer, air conditioners play a huge role in keeping our homes cool and comfortable. However, with regular use, your AC can experience various issues in which the cooling reduces, energy consumption increases, and you might hear strange noises.

Therefore, it is very important to have a well-functioning air conditioning system. However, to keep your AC working in optimal condition, regular maintenance is required to increase its efficiency and durability.

A well-maintained system performs better and reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns, especially during scorching summer days. So, let's review the top 5 AC maintenance tips to keep your home cool.

Clean the Condenser Coils

The condenser coils are located in the outdoor unit of your AC system. They are responsible for releasing heat that is absorbed from the inside of your home. Over time, these coils can accumulate dirt and debris, which impairs their ability to expel heat efficiently.

Indoor unit components like insulation might also break off and clog the condensate drain. Therefore, when coils are dirty, the system has to work even harder to cool your home, which leads to increased energy consumption and wear on the unit.

Tip: Gently clean the condenser coils using a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment. You can also rinse the coils with water from a hose, but be careful so that you do not use high pressure.

Inspect and Replace The Filters

Maintaining HVAC system efficiency is one of the most important aspects of your air conditioner. A clean filter provides you with clean indoor air quality, especially if you have a ducted system.

Therefore, if we consider the airflow cycle, a dirty filter has a lot of impact on the quality of air that is being recycled indoors. If your AC has dirty and blocked filters, it will reduce the airflow, which can cause the system to work even harder. This leads to reduced efficiency and lifespan.

Tip: Check your AC air filters at least once a month, especially during peak usage. And if you notice any kind of dirt and clogging, replace or clean it. This small task can help you make a big difference in the performance of your AC.

Check and Clear the Drains

Your air conditioner has a drain line that helps remove moisture collected during the cooling process. If this line becomes clogged, it will cause the AC to experience water damage and mold growth and affect its efficiency. Regular checkups and clearing the drain line play a key role in preventing these issues and ensuring your system operates properly.

Tip: Inspect your drain line regularly for any kind of visible blockages and use a wet/dry vacuum to clear the clog or consult a professional HVAC company in Sacramento. Additionally, you can also consider using a mixture of water and bleach to clean the drain line to prevent it from algae and mold growth.

Ensure Proper Insulation

Proper insulation around your AC unit is essential for maintaining efficiency. If the insulation on your refrigerant lines is damaged or missing, then your system has been working harder to maintain the desired temperature. This leads to increased energy consumption and potential system strain.

Tip: For a proper air conditioner upkeep check the insulation on the refrigerant lines and replace or repair any damage. You can use foam insulation sleeves, which are available at most hardware stores, to wrap the lines and also ensure that they are properly installed.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

While regular DIY maintenance is important, having your AC unit professionally checked at least once a year is very important. A certified HVAC technician can help you perform a thorough inspection, clean the system, and identify any kind of potential issues before they become major problems. Opting for a regular professional air conditioning repair in Sacramento will guarantee that the AC works efficiently during the summer.

Tip: Schedule a professional maintenance visit before it is the time of the cooling season to ensure your system is ready for peak performance. The technician will check and adjust various components, such as the thermostat, electrical connections, and refrigerant levels.

Bottom Line

With the help of these simple tips, you can help yourself in the scorching summer and maintain your AC effectively. From cleaning the condenser coils to scheduling professional maintenance you can keep your air conditioner running smoothly. Regular upkeep not only helps you improve the performance of your AC but also avoids any kind of unexpected repairs and reduces energy costs.