An air conditioner is a necessity in every household. You need regular and proper maintenance for the efficient and effective functioning of the unit. Ignoring the required maintenance will affect the AC’s functionality, causing a steady performance decline while increasing energy use. 

Extreme weather conditions have a harsh effect on your AC. The hotter it is, the harder your Ac works; overworking it will damage the unit. You will need an air conditioner tune-up for maximum output. 

Clean Filters 

An AC filter stops particles like dust, dirt, and dander from entering your home. Air filters get clogged with dirt and dust with time, which may cause many problems later. If you notice your AC makes strange loud noises and does not release the right amount of air, the filters are due for a cleaning. A dirty filter strains your AC and can hinder air quality in your home. 

Clean the Coils

The coils are a crucial component of the AC unit, helping the refrigerant absorb heat and, as a result, cool your home. After continual use, dirt insulates the coils, reducing the heat it absorbs. In this case, your AC works harder than usual to cool the space. 

Cleaning the coils when necessary relieves unnecessary strain on the AC. Start by removing any debris from the area around the condenser. 

Check Fins

Every AC has an evaporator and condenser that comes complete with fins. The fins bend after a while due to wear and tear, causing insufficient airflow. Keep checking the fins to ensure the air conditioner functions well and efficiently. If you notice bending, purchase a new fin comb and replace it. 

Keep the Room Closed Tightly

Cool air leaks from outside when the room is not well closed. Leaking cool air causes your air conditioner to work harder and release more air into the room. This cycle continues till you deal with the leak. 

Continuous strain on the AC may cause it to overheat or get damaged. Weather-stripping, caulk application, and seal the room tightly, preventing the loss of cool air. 

Turn it Off When Not Using. 

If the AC is not in use, switch it off. Many people opt to leave the AC on in order to maintain the correct room temperature when they get back. While it sounds practical, this is not the ideal solution. 

Conduct a Condensate Drain Inspection

A condensate drain is crucial to any AC since it enables condensation within the system to drain outdoors. After a while, the condensate drain may be clogged, impeding drainage. 

To maintain the efficient functioning of the AC, check the condensate drain periodically to ensure that it is appropriately draining water. If water does not drain properly, there could be an obstruction. Unclog it or contact a professional to help. 

Consider Using a Thermostat

A programmable thermostat will reduce your electricity bills considerably. This smart solution adjusts the air conditioner according to your room’s temperature. 

With a smart thermostat, your AC will not have to exhaust the extra cold air and exert itself. If the AC does not automatically program itself, set the thermostat temperature between 24-26 degrees Celsius. This is the average room temperature. 

Conclusion

An AC lifespan is about 10 – 15 years. To ensure that the air conditioner serves you at its best through the years, schedule for regular performance of the AC. Whenever your AC malfunctions or shows signs of damage, repair the unit immediately to extend its lifespan. 

Experts recommend an air conditioner check after every 4-5 months. If the unit is older than five years, you may need to clean vents and filters and change gas every three months.