Your home’s air conditioning Canberra is subjected to some pretty tough treatment over the summer months. Not only does it have to keep your home cool and comfortable, but it also has to contend with dust, pollen, and other airborne particles that can clog its filters and reduce its efficiency.
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to help keep your AC unit in tip-top shape. By taking some proactive steps to clean and maintain your system, you can help ensure that it will be able to provide efficient cooling with all summer long.
Here are 10 ways to maintain your residential air conditioning system:
1. Change your air filter regularly
One of the most important things you can do to maintain your air conditioner is to change its air filter regularly. A clogged air filter will restrict airflow and cause your system to work harder, which can lead to increased energy usage and wear and tear on the unit. Depending on the type of filter you have, it should be changed every one to three months.
2. Clean the evaporator coils
The evaporator coils are responsible for absorbing heat from the air inside your home. Over time, they can become covered in dust and dirt, which can reduce their ability to function properly. To clean the coils, turn off your AC unit and remove the access panel that covers them. Use a brush or vacuum attachment to remove any dirt and debris, then replace the panel and turn your AC unit back on.
3. Clean the condenser coils
The condenser coils are located outside of your home and are responsible for releasing heat that has been absorbed by the evaporator coils. Like the evaporator coils, they can become covered in dust and dirt over time, which can reduce their efficiency. To clean them, turn off your AC unit and remove any debris that may be blocking access to the coils. Use a brush or vacuum attachment to remove any dirt and debris, then replace any covers and turn your AC unit back on.
4. Clean the outdoor compressor unit
Your air conditioner’s outdoor compressor unit contains a fan that helps to circulate air. Over time, the fan can become covered in dust and dirt, which can reduce its efficiency. To clean the fan, turn off your AC unit and remove any debris that may be blocking access to the unit. Use a brush or vacuum attachment to remove any dirt and debris, then replace any covers and turn your AC unit back on.
5. Keep the area around your outdoor compressor unit clear
For your air conditioner’s outdoor compressor unit to work properly, it needs to have good airflow. Be sure to keep the area around the unit clear of any debris, such as leaves, grass clippings, or branches.
6. Inspect and clean the AC unit’s ductwork
Your air conditioner’s ductwork is responsible for carrying cooled air from the unit into your home. Over time, the ducts can become clogged with dust and debris, which can reduce airflow and cause your AC unit to work harder than it needs to. To clean the ductwork, turn off your AC unit and remove any debris that may be blocking access to the ducts. Use a brush or vacuum attachment to remove any dirt and debris, then replace any covers and turn your AC unit back on.
7. Schedule an annual maintenance check
It’s a good idea to have your air conditioner serviced by a professional at least once a year. During a maintenance check, the technician will inspect the unit, clean it, and make any necessary repairs. This can help to prevent problems down the road and keep your AC unit running smoothly all summer long.
8. Keep your AC unit’s coils clean
Your air conditioner’s coils play an important role in its ability to cool your home. The evaporator coils absorb heat from the air inside your home, while the condenser coils release heat that has been absorbed by the evaporator coils. Over time, the coils can become covered in dust and dirt, which can reduce their efficiency. To clean the coils, turn off your AC unit and remove any debris that may be blocking access to them. Use a brush or vacuum attachment to remove any dirt and debris, then replace any covers and turn your AC unit back on.
9. Inspect and clean the AC unit’s ductwork
Your air conditioner’s ductwork is responsible for carrying cooled air from the unit into your home. Over time, the ducts can become clogged with dust and debris, which can reduce airflow and cause your AC unit to work harder than it needs to. To clean the ductwork, turn off your AC unit and remove any debris that may be blocking access to the ducts. Use a brush or vacuum attachment to remove any dirt and debris, then replace any covers and turn your AC unit back on.
10. Keep your AC unit’s outdoor compressor unit clear of debris
For your air conditioner’s outdoor compressor unit to work properly, it needs to have good airflow. Be sure to keep the area around the unit clear of any debris, such as leaves, grass clippings, or branches.