While you might not think about it often, your air conditioner is essential to keeping your home comfortable. However, without proper and regular maintenance, it will struggle to play this role efficiently. Avoid an HVAC breakdown in the middle of summer by following these basic care tips.

How to Maintain Your Air Conditioner

1. Replace the Air Filter

When your air conditioner is running, it continuously pulls warm air out of the home to be cooled. Before the air flows into the ductwork, it must first pass through an air filter—which catches dust, hair, pet dander, and other particles that might be floating in the air. To ensure airflow does not become impeded, the filter will need to be changed every 30 to 90 days. If it's not, the HVAC system will have to work harder than necessary to cool the home, resulting in quicker wear and tear and possibly shortening the unit's lifespan.

2. Clean the Coils

Although the air filter will minimize the amount of dirt that reaches the evaporator and condenser coils, they still collect dirt and require cleaning at least once a year. This will maintain proper airflow and remove any insulating detritus that might keep the evaporator coil from absorbing heat. Additionally, to maintain airflow around the condenser, cut back grass and remove foliage and tree limbs that might have accumulated in the two feet surrounding the unit.

3. Comb the Fins

The evaporator and condenser coils both use fins to aid in the heat exchange process. Unfortunately, these fins can become bent following routine maintenance or after a strong storm. When this happens, the HVAC's airflow is decreased. You can use a special tool called a fin comb to put them back in their original position.

Another key step in maintaining your air conditioner is to schedule regular inspections with a professional HVAC contractor. Since 1931, Hunter Heating & Air Conditioning has provided High Point, NC, with residential and commercial HVAC installations, repairs, and maintenance service. Their team is fully trained and certified and available for 24/7 emergency care. Call them today at (336) 882-3367 for a free quote, and visit their website to learn more about their services.