The Must-Have Air Conditioner Maintenance Checklist to Keep Your AC Humming Along

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.

Schedule an Annual AC Service

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

Change the Air Filter

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.

Check and Clean the Internal Components

Photo: Aliaksandr Litviniuk / iStock / Getty Images

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

Stick to a Consistent Temperature

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

Seal Air Leaks

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

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

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.