STEPS YOU CAN MAKE TO PROLONG YOUR HOME AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM.

Taking care of your home air conditioning system is essential to ensure it functions efficiently and maintains good air quality. Here are steps to help you maintain your AC system:

1. Regular Cleaning:

   • Clean or replace the air filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage.

   • Clean the evaporator and condenser coils annually.

   • Remove debris around the outdoor unit to ensure proper airflow.

2. Thermostat Maintenance:

   • Check and calibrate your thermostat to ensure accurate temperature control.

   • Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for energy savings.

3. Regular Inspections:

   • Schedule annual professional inspections and maintenance. HVAC technicians can identify and fix potential problems.

4. Condensate Drain Maintenance:

   • Ensure the condensate drain is clear of blockages to prevent water damage or mold growth

5. Ductwork Inspection:

   • Check the ductwork for leaks or damage and repair any issues.

   • Consider professional duct cleaning every few years, especially if you have allergies.

6. Keep Vents Unobstructed:

   • Ensure that supply and return vents are not blocked by furniture, curtains, or other items.

7. Protect from Direct Sunlight:

   • Shield your outdoor unit from direct sunlight or other extreme weather conditions to prevent overworking the system.

8. Proper Insulation:

   • Insulate your home to reduce heat transfer and ease the workload on your AC.

9. Seal Leaks and Gaps:

   • Seal any gaps, cracks, or leaks in your doors and windows to keep conditioned air inside.

10. Regularly Check Refrigerant Levels:

    • Low refrigerant levels can affect the cooling capacity. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, contact a professional.

11. Outdoor Unit Maintenance:

    • Trim vegetation around the outdoor unit to ensure proper airflow.

    • Keep the area clean and free from debris.

12. Regularly Check and Lubricate Moving Parts:

    • Lubricate motors, fans, and other moving parts as recommended by the manufacturer.

13. Invest in a Surge Protector:

    • Install a surge protector for your AC unit to safeguard it from power fluctuations.

14. Energy-Efficiency Improvements:

    • Consider adding shading or reflective materials to reduce indoor heat.

    • Upgrade to a more energy-efficient AC system if your current one is outdated.

15. Change Batteries:

    • Change the batteries in your thermostat and remote control (if applicable) as needed.

16. Indoor Air Quality:

    • Use air purifiers and consider adding a dehumidifier if needed.

    • Keep indoor air quality in mind by using high-quality air filters.

17. Programmable Thermostat:

    • Utilize a programmable thermostat to set temperature schedules for different times of the day and night.

18. Learn Basic Troubleshooting:

    • Familiarize yourself with basic troubleshooting steps to identify common problems.

19. Warranty and Documentation:

    • Keep your warranty information and user manual for reference.

    • Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintenance.

20. Professional Help:

    • If you encounter issues you can't resolve, or for major repairs and replacements, consult a licensed HVAC technician.

By following these steps, you can help prolong the life of your home air conditioning system, improve its energy efficiency, and ensure that your indoor environment remains comfortable and healthy.