Outdoor HVAC units endure a lot of wear, and neglect can lead to broken A/C parts. A damaged compressor or evaporator can require costly repairs—and even a unit replacement—which is why every homeowner needs a maintenance plan. Whether you’ve installed a new unit, or want to better care for an existing one, use the following guide.

What Are the Important HVAC Care Tips?

1. Scrub the Evaporator Coils

The evaporator coil circulates refrigerant in your system. This A/C part then removes the heat from incoming hot air so your home receives cool air. It won’t work as efficiently if dirt and debris coat the surface and inhibit heat transfer, so you’ll need to clean it once a year. Purchase a coil cleaner from your local hardware store and spray it on the thick coils located behind the back panel of your unit. You can then scrub the coils with a soft-bristled brush.

2. Spray the Fins

A lot of debris can be captured in the outer fins on the unit and impact how the A/C parts draw hot air in to treat. Blast the fins on the outer enclosure with a garden hose or can of compressed air. You can also apply a commercial fin cleaner to break down tough buildup. Avoid using a pressure washer, however, as the power could damage HVAC parts.

Next, check for bent fins. These can become compressed and prevent air intake. Slide a butter knife between them and apply pressure to straighten them.

3. Change the Filter

One of the easiest HVAC maintenance tasks is changing the blower filter. This replaceable filter captures incoming debris to provide the best air quality for your home. It’s usually located between the blower fan and central A/C ductwork running into your home. Check the filter once a month, and replace it at least twice a year, so you get the cleanest air and nothing obstructs the airflow.

4. Clean the Outside

Make cleaning the outside of your HVAC unit part of your weekend lawn care routine. Wipe off leaves, grass clippings, and other debris from all surfaces. You can also hose off the unit. It’s wise to set up a partition to keep pets, pests, and children away, so they don’t accidentally damage wiring or hoses. If you have foliage nearby, trim back branches to create 3 feet of free space on all sides of the unit.

If you’ve already had an HVAC breakdown and require A/C parts, contact Appliance Parts of Radcliff, Inc. in Kentucky. They’ve served the state for over 25 years and stock a large selection of appliance parts. Whether for your HVAC system, refrigerator, washer or dryer, or other home appliance, a sales associate can guide you toward everything your system needs. Call (270) 352-2900 to speak with a representative and visit their website to explore their inventory.