10 Tips for Maintaining Your Air Conditioner and Heat Pump

As the weather gets warmer, many of us will be turning our air conditioners on for the first time in months. And, as any homeowner knows, keeping your AC unit in good working order is vital to staying cool and comfortable all summer long. Here are 10 tips to help you maintain your air conditioner and heat pump so that it will continue to work properly all season:

1. Check the air filter monthly and replace it as needed. A dirty air filter can impede air flow and cause your AC unit to work harder than necessary.
2. Keep the area around your AC unit clear of debris. Leaves, dirt, and other debris can block air flow and cause your unit to overheat. Regularly clean your unit and keep it clear of debris to enable it to function properly. Debris will cause your unit to overheat and will reduce its operational efficiency. If your unit is located in a high-traffic area, consider installing a screen or cage around the unit to prevent damage. If your unit is located in an area where there is a lot of dust, consider a dust guard or cover. HVAC in Cincinnati will keep the dust out of your unit, preventing it from overworking and clogging.
3. Inspect the fins on the condenser coils monthly and straighten them if necessary. Bent fins can impede air flow and cause your unit to work harder than necessary.
4. Inspect the evaporator coils annually and clean them if necessary. Dirty coils can cause the unit to freeze up and stop working properly.
5. Check the AC unit’s refrigerant level annually and recharge it as needed. A low refrigerant level can cause the unit to work harder than necessary and can damage the compressor.
6. Inspect the AC unit’s ductwork annually and seal any leaks. Leaky ductwork can cause the unit to work harder than necessary and can waste energy.
7. Have the AC unit serviced by a professional every two years. A professional can clean the unit and perform any necessary repairs.
8. Replace the AC unit’s air filter every three months. A dirty air filter can impede air flow and cause your AC unit to work harder than necessary.
9. Inspect the AC unit’s condenser coils every six months and clean them if necessary. Dirty coils can cause the unit to overheat and shut down.
10. Have the AC unit’s evaporator coils cleaned every year. Dirty coils can cause the unit to freeze up and stop working properly.