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.

As simple as it seems, avoiding close contact with anyone who is sick is the number one way to stay healthy.  And if you are sick, do everyone a favor and stay home from work or school.  Believe us, they will thank you.

Always cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.  If you don’t have a tissue nearby, use the crook of your elbow, not your hands.  If you use your hands, you will spread the germs much more readily than if they were captured in your elbow.

Wash your hands frequently.  This is a good practice in general, but during the cold season, it is even more important.  You will stop the spread of your germs to others and prevent the spread of their germs to you.

Avoid touching your face at all.  Our skin does such a great job of protecting us that germs have to find a way in somehow.  The mouth, nose, and eyes are all hot spots that germs love to gain entry.

Make sure you get plenty of sleep, eat a healthy diet, and keep your stress levels down.  The immune system is compromised by a lack of sleep, improper nutrition, and high stress levels.  When your body has to concentrate on combating those problems, it has less ammunition for colds and the flu.

Ensure that you are changing or cleaning the filters on your furnace every couple of months.  If you have someone with a compromised immune system or someone who often gets sick living in your house, you might want to consider a UV light.  They are often installed in doctors office and hospitals to ensure that all of the bacteria in the air is killed as it is being circulated through the building.