How to Maintain Your Air Conditioning System

In a year-round warm climate, your home’s air conditioning system needs routine maintenance to function as efficiently as possible. Besides ensuring your air conditioning system won’t breakdown when you need it most, routine maintenance will benefit you in a myriad of other ways. Not sure how you can maintain your HVAC system yourself? Here are four easy tips to help you get started.

1. Change the Air Filter Monthly

The easiest thing you can do to ensure your air conditioner remains in tip-top shape is by changing the filter at least once a month. Filters collect debris from incoming air to prevent indoor air pollution. Indoor air pollution not only causes allergic reactions like sneezing, coughing and red, watery eyes, but it can also contribute to more serious illnesses and respiratory conditions.

2. Have Dust Vacuumed from Mechanisms

Another vital feature of filters is making sure dust does not build up on the internal mechanisms of the air conditioner as this can cause parts to overheat. A buildup of dirt inside an air conditioner can also absorb the oil that lubricates moving parts that prevent noise and malfunctions. If an air conditioner is making screeching noises, then it needs an inspection immediately from a technician with access to its schematics. An air conditioner inspection performed by a technician includes removing the cover of the device to vacuum debris and lubricating mechanisms while verifying that no parts are worn or defective.

3. Be Mindful of Your Landscaping

In addition to maintaining the indoor components of your air conditioning system, you need to maintain the outdoor components too. Start by checking that the area around the outdoor unit us free of any debris such as tall grass, leaves, branches and the like. It’s also a good idea to avoid planting trees or shrubs too close to the outdoor unit as it can hinder its functionality and prevent proper airflow.

4. Make Sure the Vents are Open

When air is not flowing freely through the ductwork within your home, it is possible that there is a blockage in the vents. A blockage can lead to poor air circulation, higher energy costs and can cause a buildup of lethal gases. Be sure to make a habit of checking your vents for proper airflow, or call an HVAC professional to verify the vents aren’t blocked.

Schedule a Maintenance Checkup With an HVAC Professional

The simplest and most effective way to ensure your air conditioning system is properly maintained is by calling a professional. At Sea Coast Air Conditioning, we offer routine maintenance checkups that increase the lifespan of your system, while improving comfort and IAQ as well. If you haven’t had your HVAC system maintained this year, give us a call today to learn how we can help, or schedule an appointment online.