Air Filters, Coils, and Maintenance, Oh My!

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Although winter has only just arrived, it’s never too early to think about maintenance for your air conditioner. This way, you’ll be prepared for summer without getting caught off guard. Regular maintenance will also help with efficiency, keeping the air quality up, but energy use low.

Cleaning the filters should be the first task to cross off the list. Clogged, dirty filters can block the normal air flow, significantly reducing the efficiency, because the fan motor of the air conditioner has to work harder to move air through it, thus consuming more energy, making it more expensive to operate.

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If your air filter is clean, the evaporator coils are less likely to collect dirt, however, over time these too will need to be cleaned or replaced. Dirt reduces the air flow, thus reducing the coils ability to absorb heat. Coils should be checked every year and cleaned as necessary.

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Checking the water drain should be on the list next. As an air conditioner cools the temperature of the air, water condenses from the air and collects in a drain. If the lines or drain become blocked or develop leaks, water can spill out from the unit, causing safety hazards or water damage. It is recommended that the drains be checked no later than April before most units will be used full-time.

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With winter approaching, it is best to either cover your air conditioner or remove and store it. If you have an outdoor unit, covering it will protect the air conditioner from winter weather and debris, like leaves, hail, ice, and snow. If you have an outdoor condenser unit, you should also turn the outside electrical switch to “off” when the cover is put on, and then turn the switch to “on” when the cover is removed.

Proper maintenance will help reduce unscheduled repairs to your home air conditioning system, and if you’re living in an area where weather is always uncertain, you’ll be prepared for summer year round.