It’s easy to forget about your air conditioner when it is freezing outside, but spring is just around the corner and the temperature is going to start warming up before you know it. That’s why it’s so common to turn on the unit on the first sweltering day of the year only to discover it doesn’t work.
You need to clean window units as well, but we are going to focus on central air systems for this article. These units are built to cool your entire home. They’re usually connected to your home’s heating system and share the same ductwork.
A central air conditioning unit is made up of a condenser unit and evaporator coils. The condenser is mounted outside the house, where it pulls hot air in and delivers it to the evaporator coils, which then cool the air and release it into to each room through a fan-coil and duct system.
For most maintenance on these systems, it is best to call a professional HVAC technician. But there are some things you can safely do yourself that will help your unit live a long, productive life. Below are some tips and instructions for maintaining your central air conditioning system.
Note: Shut off power to the condenser and evaporator coils before doing anything to the system – if you don’t know how or can’t, call a professional.
The condenser collects a lot of dirt and debris because it is located outdoors, so it is good to clean it from time to time. Remove the motor cover, and you will see the fan and coil. The fan’s blades suck in air and pass it through the condenser coil. In the process, the coil gets clogged with dirt, leaves, grass, and other materials. Remove the large stuff and wipe down the coil with a dry rag. There are condenser cleaners you can get but you should only need a solution if it is really dirty. Be sure not to use water; it can turn dirt into mud, which can further clog your system.
The evaporator is next. Before touching it, make sure power is shut off to your furnace. Usually the switch is mounted somewhere near the unit itself or on the house’s main electrical panel. Right above the furnace is where your evaporator is most likely located. If the outside of that area is sealed, don’t pry it off, call a professional. If you have access, you can use a vacuum attachment with soft bristles to suck away dust and dirt.
These are two simple ways you can help keep your central air conditioner working just as it should. So make sure to add cleaning and maintaining your air conditioning system to your spring-cleaning routine. You’ll be pleased you did when it gets hot out there.