AC Maintenance: Steps You Need To Take
With a whole-home air conditioning unit, you don't want the unit to work harder than necessary. If it does this, the air conditioning system will wear out faster, and you will notice utility bills higher than usual. To ensure that your AC unit stays in tip-top shape, you need to focus on adequate maintenance. Here are a few steps you need to take.
Turn the Power Off
Before you perform any kind of routine maintenance or cleaning, it is important that you turn the power off to the air conditioning unit. A shut-off box should be visible near the unit; however, if you do not see one, then simply go to the breaker box and shut the power off from there.
Clean Around the Exterior Unit
The exterior unit is just as important as the interior unit, and it is important to make sure that the outside unit is clear of any debris and vegetation. Rake away debris and loose leaves and remove any branches and plants within about two to three feet around the unit. Doing so will help prevent a blockage of the airflow, which will reduce the amount of energy waste.
Clean the Interior Unit
Once the exterior unit has been cleaned, you need to head to the interior unit. To clean the inside unit, lift the outside cover and use a vacuum attachment to remove any twigs, leaves, and debris that have accumulated inside. Remove the evaporator coil door and dust off the coil. A no-rinse coil cleaner can be sprayed on it as well. Once it has stopped dripping into the drip pan, use some warm, soapy water to remove grime. A professional can come in and perform a more thorough cleaning.
Change the AC Filter
Filters should be checked regularly and changed every three to four months—ultimately at the start of each season. If the filter becomes clogged with dust, dirt, and debris, the airflow won't be as sufficient, decreasing the unit's efficiency. If you have pets in the home or just live in a dusty environment, the filter should be changed on a monthly basis. Before you change the filter, make sure that the power to the system has been shut off.
These are all things that you can do to maintain your residential air conditioning system. For more thorough air conditioning maintenance, contact a company like Baton Rouge Air Conditioning & Heating.