HVAC maintenance is a must for your spring cleaning list. After all, heating and cooling your home accounts for 50% of your electricity bill. An AC tune up, whether DIY or from a professional, can help ensure your system runs efficiently before temps heat up.
7 Air Conditioning Maintenance Tips for the DIYer
If weekend projects around the home are your thing, here are 7 air conditioner maintenance tasks you can tackle!
- Change your air filter. This one tip can have a big impact on the health of your HVAC system and make it more efficient. Once the air filter clogs, the HVAC uses more energy to pull in air. For best results, replace your air filter monthly, especially if you have pets in the home. Make the first day of the month your recurring day to change the air filter!
- Clean the condensate drain. A clogged condensate drain pipe can make your AC system’s drain pan overflow, causing water damage in your home. Locate the drain line access point on the interior unit (usually a t-shaped white PVC tube). Add 1/4 cup vinegar or a commercially available drain line cleaner and repeat this at least once a quarter. If you have a clog from dirt, algae or debris, follow these tips to remove it first.
- Remove obstructions around your exterior system. Check the outside unit to ensure that it’s not clogged with sticks, leaves or grass clippings. Make sure any plants are at least two feet from the unit to ensure proper air flow.
- Clean your evaporator coil The external evaporator coil inside your unit needs to be cleaned to perform efficiently. You can purchase no-rinse evaporator coil cleaner online, or you can clean your evaporator coil using a solution of dishwasher soap and distilled water, with a rinse of white vinegar.
- Check your duct work. Make sure your duct work is not sagging or ripped. Have leaks in your duct work repaired to increase your system’s efficiency and help your HVAC system cool your home more effectively. Use metal foil tape – not duct tape – to seal any leaks.
- Check refrigerant levels. Too much or too little will make your system less efficient. Adjust refrigerant levels as necessary. Be sure to double check the insulation on refrigerant lines and replace them if missing or damaged.
- Tighten electrical connections. Faulty electrical connections are a safety hazard you want to be sure to avoid.
And if some of this is outside your comfort zone? Us too! If you aren’t a DIY person, make sure to schedule an A/C tune-up with a professional.
To keep your condensate pump free from mold and mildew, add a solution of 50% vinegar/50% water to the access point, typically in your attic. Or, purchase a commercially available solution from your local AC maintenance company or hardware store.
Air Conditioner Tune Up – What’s Included?
If you’re not a DIY type of person, some of our tips on A/C check-up may be a little intimidating. That’s where a professional AC tune up comes in.
AC tune ups are low cost, averaging $90-$150 depending on your location. It’s a cheap way to get peace of mind going into the cooling season.
TIP: Before you call your HVAC technician, check to see if your local utility offers a free AC tune up. Consumers can qualify for a free tune up every 3-5 years.
Here’s what an AC tune up should include:
- Blower Motor – measure amperage and voltage for proper operation
- Thermostat – test for proper operation, calibrate and level
- Bearing – inspect for wear and lubricate
- Inspect indoor coil
- Condensate Drain – flush and treat with anti-algae
- Inspect condenser coil
- Refrigerant – monitor operating pressures; you’ll pay extra for any coolant added to the system.
- Inspect fan blade
- Safety Devices – inspect for proper operation
- Electrical Disconnect Box – inspect for proper rating and safe installation
- Electrical Wiring – inspect and tighten connections
- Inspect electrical for exposed wiring
- Inspect and test capacitors
- Clean condenser coil and remove debris
- Inspect service valves for proper operation
- Measure supply/return temperature differential
- Inspect duct work for energy loss
If your HVAC unit is more than 15 years old, consider replacing it with a high efficiency system. That could cut your heating and cooling costs by 20-40%. And consider a heat pump HVAC system, which could cool your home efficiently while letting you take advantage of tax incentives.
Whether you do it yourself or hire an HVAC professional, spring HVAC maintenance will help your system run efficiently all summer long.
