In the warmer months of the year, you trust your air conditioner to keep you cool and comfortable. The best way to do that is to stay on top of regular AC maintenance and prevent any issues before they have a chance to start. Here is a brief rundown of a few do's and don'ts when it comes to air conditioner maintenance.

Do:

Clean your air conditioner annually.

An AC cleaning is not something most homeowners typically include in their spring-cleaning, but it’s essential to ensure the unit is best prepared for the season ahead. Wipe down coils and drains, and change out the air filters. These small steps help the unit run more efficiently and prevent clogs and backups that could create problems further down the road.

Schedule professional inspections regularly.

Another easy step to take that will save you considerable stress and cost in the long run is to arrange a professional inspection at least once a year. An HVAC provider will come in, perform a series of tests to determine how well your AC is running, and offer the most effective solutions for keeping the unit operating at peak efficiency. Without a professional inspection, you could be losing up to 5% of your unit's overall efficiency every year.

Don't:

Block vents.

Keep the area around the vents clear and unimpeded. The air needs to flow freely and be able to fully discharge from the ventilation system to best keep the entire home cool, so it’s crucial that nothing gets in the way. In larger homes, this might not be an issue, but in homes where space is at a premium, this might be a challenge. Be mindful of where the vents are in your home, and don’t let anything block them.

Clog the unit.

Get in the habit of regularly checking the outside of the AC, looking for anything that might be clogging up—or have the potential to clog up—the unit. Leaves, nests, and dead animals are all common culprits to be on the lookout for.

For any air conditioner issues or routine inspections, trust the HVAC professionals at Comfort Tech Heating & Air Conditioning. Since 1994, they have been serving homeowners throughout Thomasville, NC, and the Piedmont Triad area. Call (336) 472-5858 or visit them online to schedule a quote. Be sure to mention their website and receive $20 off your service; also, receive a $50 Visa^® check card when referring someone who books an equipment installation or replacement.