Stay cool, calm, and collected with this AC maintenance to-do list
Regular maintenance is key to an AC that runs smoothly and keeps you cool even in the hottest months of the year. Even a little bit of upkeep can go a long way in terms of protecting your AC’s components and avoiding expensive energy bills and repairs. So, what do you have to do to make sure your AC stays in good shape? Let’s run through an ideal air conditioner maintenance checklist.
Having your air conditioner serviced every year will help it run more efficiently, extend its life span, and prevent minor issues from turning into expensive repairs. Even better? Staying up-to-date with your AC tuneups can save you money by decreasing your unit’s energy consumption by up to 15%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
On average, annual AC maintenance costs between $60 and $200, depending on the type of air conditioner you have. During the appointment, your HVAC technician will run through several tasks, including:
Replacing the air filter
Cleaning the coils
Removing blockages from air ducts
Checking electrical connections
Testing the thermostat
Your air conditioner’s filter collects dust, dirt, hair, and other debris, preventing it from entering your AC unit and potentially damaging it. When your filter is dirty, it becomes less effective, and it forces your air conditioner to work harder, resulting in higher energy usage and utility costs.
It’s important to change your air filter every one to three months to keep your system running efficiently. Fortunately, it’s a straightforward job that should take less than 15 minutes. It involves:
Identifying the filter type and size
Turning off the AC unit
Removing the old filter
Inserting the new filter and checking the fit
For reference, HVAC filters cost between $10 and $50, depending on the type, thickness, and efficiency rating.
Even though your HVAC pro will inspect your air conditioner’s components during your annual service appointment, you’ll want to check them throughout the year, as well. Every few months, make sure to:
Remove debris from your AC unit’s fan with a brush, rag, or hose
Clean your AC coils using a soft brush, cloth, and cleaning solution
Straighten crooked or bent fins with a fin comb or butter knife
Confirm that your AC unit is level
Note: Before you perform any maintenance, make sure your AC is turned off
Keeping your air conditioner at a steady temperature (in other words, not changing the settings frequently or turning it on and off repeatedly) is another way to prolong its life.
Here’s the best temperature to set your AC:
When you’re at home and awake: 78 degrees Fahrenheit
When you’re asleep: 60 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit
When you’re out of the house: 85 degrees Fahrenheit
If there are drafty areas in your home, your air conditioner will have to work overtime to cool it. To save energy (and money), call a pro to close up any air leaks in these areas:
Windows and door frames
Baseboards
Outlets
Entries to appliances
Attic entrances
Fireplaces
Except for the annual tuneup, most of the items on this air conditioner maintenance checklist are easy enough to tackle without professional help. And it’s important to do so because basic AC upkeep can save you money on future repairs.
Rather recruit an expert to handle all of your HVAC maintenance? Contact a local AC repair company. But heads up: Some of these tasks need to be done every few months (or more often), so calling a pro every time can get pricey.
Yes, you can clean AC coils yourself. Just make sure that the power to your AC system is off before you begin. You’ll need some basic tools and supplies, including a soft brush, cloth, screwdriver, and a commercial or homemade cleaning solution. Cleaning your coils will only cost about $10.
Without regular HVAC maintenance, your air conditioner—and other parts of your HVAC system—will have to work harder than necessary. As a result, the unit may sustain more wear and tear and need more repairs than a well-maintained system would. Avoiding HVAC maintenance can also increase your energy bills and negatively impact your indoor air quality.
