Your air conditioner is always there when you need it, whether on an 82-degree-and-humid day or a stretch of above-average temperatures. Truth be told, though, you probably don’t think about this device much until something happens to it, and it’s not there when you need it most.
But, by creating an HVAC maintenance schedule and carefully considering the unit’s vital components, from your filters to coils, you may prevent a problem before it has a chance to start. You’ll then remain cool when those temperatures soar.
Know What Maintenance Needs to Be Done and When
Understanding exactly what maintenance is necessary can help you create an ideal HVAC maintenance schedule so you’re on top of it and keep your AC running optimally.
Once a Month – Clean Around the Condenser
Before you turn on your AC for the year, remove any leaves that accumulated around the condenser during the unit’s offseasons.
And at least once a month while the unit is in use, clean around it — and at least two feet away from it in any given direction.
All that dirt and grass surrounding it can enter and clog your system, so your home won’t be as cool as it could be, and your unit will work harder than it has to.
While you’re cleaning your unit, get out your hose and rinse off the condenser coils (on a gentle setting). You may use coil cleaner if needed.
As a precaution, turn off the unit before you begin this process to keep you and your system safe.
Every One to Three Months – Clean or Replace the Air Filter
The air filter works hard to keep unwanted particles from entering your home and the system.
As you can imagine, especially from dust from your furniture and carpet — and pet fur, if you have one — the filter may clog frequently and quickly.
And when the filter becomes blocked and isn’t being cleaned or replaced, your unit won’t work as efficiently as it should. Not to mention, when air can’t flow freely through the filter, you may shorten the life of your AC by causing excessive wear on the unit’s internal components, including, but not limited to, the following parts:
- Compressor
- Evaporator coil
- Blower motor
- Capacitor
- Fan motor
Ideally, clean or replace the filter every one to three months, more frequently if you smoke or have pets, to keep your unit running, your space cool, and your energy prices low.
Once Every Six Months – Clean the Blower Fan
The blower fan is a vital component in the air handler (part of your indoor unit) and is responsible for circulating cold air into your ducts. Dust, pet fur, and other airborne particles may collect on it and reduce airflow.
Besides contributing to rising energy bills, dirty blades can also lead to overheating and system damage.
Keep the blower debris-free by cleaning the blades every six months. To do so, turn off the unit to prevent a shock or damage to the system.
Then, depending on the amount of dirt, use a vacuum or a soft-bristled brush to clean the blades.
On a side note, if you have pets, smoke indoors, or have a lot of dust in your home, you may need to clean the blower fan more often than every six months.
Once a Year – Flush Out the Condenser Drain Line
All the moisture your AC gathers exits through the condenser drain line. And as you can imagine, algae, mould, and other microorganisms will thrive where there’s water.
As a result, flush out the line using a vinegar and water solution or a cleaner made for your drain line once a year.
By keeping all that out, you prevent clogs and potential water damage and ensure your system is in overall good working order.
Trust a Professional for a Routine Exam
While having an HVAC maintenance schedule of DIY tasks can save you money by increasing efficiency and prolonging your system’s lifespan, opting for a professional yearly inspection is an added layer of coverage. This HVAC professional can provide comprehensive maintenance and an expert inspection — and if any issues are found, they can also help you repair your air conditioner promptly and effectively.
Types of Services Provided
In fact, a technician may cross off every task on your AC maintenance checklist that you can’t perform (or don’t want to) and then some, including:
- Changing the refrigerant
- Inspecting the coils
- Cleaning or replacing the filter
- Lubricating mechanical components
- Examining electrical elements
- Recharging the system
- Detecting refrigerant leaks
Not to mention, if you have signs of a part failing, the HVAC specialist can replace it.
Always Consider the Season for Your Visit
In Vaughan, ON, and the surrounding areas, it’s safe to say you won’t need your AC unit during the winter, but once the temperatures start rising in July and August, it’s on deck and needs to work at its peak.
You don’t want to wait until summer is already here, and you’re in panic mode as the weatherperson forecasts temps in the 90s all week.
So, schedule your maintenance visit sometime between March and June to be prepared!
