How to Maintain Your Air Conditioning Unit to Ensure a Longer Lifespan

Summer is in full swing and that means one thing: air conditioning season!

If you’re like most people, your air conditioner is working overtime to keep you cool.

It’s important to make sure that you are doing everything you can to maintain your AC unit so that it lasts as long as possible.

From hiring quality air duct cleaning professionals to clean your ductwork to inspecting the drainage, there are many things you can do to increase its lifespan. So, let’s learn more.

Clean Or Change Its Filters

One of the primary things you should do to maintain your air conditioner is to clean or change its filters.

This should be done every few months, or more often if you have pets or live in a dusty area. Dirty filters can impede airflow and cause your AC unit to work harder than it needs to, which can shorten its lifespan.

Fortunately, you will be able to easily find the AC filters that you need for your system in case you already need to have them replaced.

You just have to be sure that you purchase the right size and type of filter so that it will fit your system perfectly.

Also, in choosing a filter, make sure that you go for those that have a higher MERV rating.

This is because the filters with the highest MERV ratings can capture smaller particles, which means they will be able to do a better job of keeping your air clean.

As much as possible, you also need to avoid using disposable filters because they are not as effective and can be more costly in the long run.

Check Its Coils

Another thing you need to do is to check the coils of your air conditioner.

The evaporator coil and the condenser coil are responsible for absorbing heat from inside your home and releasing it outside, respectively.

If these coils are dirty, they will not be able to function properly and your air conditioner will have to work harder to do its job.

You can clean the coils yourself with a brush or by vacuuming them, but you may also need to hire a professional to do it for you.

In case you intend to do the cleaning on your own, make sure to turn off your air conditioner first and unplug it from the power source.

Inspect And Clean Its Ductwork

The ductwork of your AC unit is also something you need to take care of if you want it to last.

This is because the ducts are responsible for carrying cooled air from your AC unit throughout your home.

If the ducts are blocked or damaged, the air will not be able to flow properly and your AC unit will have to work harder to do its job.

You can hire a professional to inspect and clean your ductwork for you, or you can do it yourself if you have the proper tools.

In choosing the right professionals to do the job, make sure to ask for referrals from family and friends or to read online reviews.

Inspect The Drainage System As Well

Drainage System of HVAC

Another important part of your AC unit that you need to take care of is the drainage system.

This system drains away from the water that condenses on the evaporator coils. If this system is not working properly, the water can back up and damage your AC unit.

You should inspect the drainage system regularly to make sure that it is clean and functioning properly. In this case, it is better if you seek the help of a professional to inspect for you.

They will have the proper tools and knowledge to properly assess the condition of your drainage system. They will also be able to fix any problem that they find.

Check And Clean The Outdoor Unit

Last but not least, you also need to take care of the outdoor unit of your air conditioner.

This is because the outdoor unit is responsible for releasing the heat that has been absorbed by the evaporator coils.

If this unit is dirty or damaged, you can expect that your air conditioner will have to work harder, which means that it will not last as long.

You can clean the outdoor unit yourself with a hose or by using a pressure washer. In terms of the latter though, make sure that the washer is set to low pressure so as not to damage the unit.

You should also hire a professional to inspect and clean the outdoor unit for you at least once a year.

This way, you can be sure that it is in good condition and that it will not cause any problem for your air conditioner.

These are just some of the things you need to do to take care of your air conditioner.

By following these tips, you can be sure that your AC unit will last for a long time. So, make sure to keep them in mind the next time you use your air conditioner.

Rest assured that with a little bit of effort, you can prolong the lifespan of your AC unit and save yourself from having to replace it sooner than necessary.

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