The sweltering summers of the Twin Cities metro area can wear down even the best cooling systems. Good air conditioner maintenance, however, helps ensure your system reaches its full life expectancy while staying as efficient as possible.
Let the Air Flow
Changing your air filter on schedule is one of the simplest and most important air conditioner maintenance jobs you c
an do. A dirty filter makes it harder for the blower fan to pull in enough air, potentially reducing your system’s efficiency by up to 15 percent. Once a month, check the air filter and replace it if you find it covered in dust. For cleaner air, more protection for your system and longer-lasting filters, upgrade to higher-efficiency pleated filters.
Every now and then, brush the leaves and other debris from the outdoor unit. At least once a year, use a garden hose to spray down the unit and wash off any remaining dirt.
Spruce Up the Components
The finest layer of dust on the evaporator coil is enough to reduce this component’s efficiency. Once or twice a year, take a look at the evaporator coil. If it’s a little dusty, clean it with foaming coil cleaner or compressed air. To remove a thick layer of dust, however, call a technician.
To keep the condensate drain algae free, pour in half a cup of white vinegar once or twice during the cooling season and wipe down the condensate tray with a diluted bleach solution. Use a wet vac to pull sludge from the outdoor end of the condensate drain line.
In addition to these DIY maintenance jobs, schedule a professional A/C tune-up every year. Your technician can inspect and care for the components you can’t access.
To schedule professional air conditioner maintenance or for other help with your cooling system, contact us at Marsh Heating & Air Conditioning anywhere in the Twin Cities metro area.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about air conditioners and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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