In view of increasing global warming and rising temperatures, air conditioners have become an indispensable part of our lives. They maintain indoor temperatures and ensure the comfort of users. To ensure their efficiency and prolonged life, maintaining your AC is essential. It can keep the system running smoothly for a long time, while neglection can lead to increased energy costs and system breakdowns. To prevent these hassles, here are a few air conditioner maintenance tips. Have a look!

How can you ensure a prolonged life for your AC system?

1. Clean your air filters:

One easy task to ensure the long life of your air conditioning system is to replace or clean your air filters. Since dirty and clogged filters decrease the airflow, the efficiency of your AC is affected. Moreover, an unclean filter can mean a bypass of unfiltered air through your HVAC system. It can cause damage to the evaporator coil. In central air conditioners, air filters are typically found along the return duct, wall, ceiling, or AC. 

Based on the type of filter you have, you can either clean or replace them. If you do not know which filter your AC has, you can find an answer by examining it. Typically, the filters made from nylon woven or plastic mesh materials are washable/reusable filters and can be cleaned with warm water. On the other hand, if you have a replaceable filter, you should replace it with one with a high MERV rating to increase the air quality. 

2. Clean your AC coils:

Besides your AC air filter, another component that needs cleaning is the AC evaporator and condenser coils. Over time, dirt and debris collect over them and insulate the coil, affecting the absorption of heat. To clean AC coils, look for a removable access panel on the air handler. Then, use a nylon brush to clean the dirt and debris collected over the coil. For stubborn stains, rinse with water using a spray bottle. When completed, reassemble the access panel.

In addition to the evaporator coils, condenser coils should be cleaned regularly. The dirt collected over them can cause the compressors and condenser fans to work harder to maintain the output of cool air inside the home. To clean them, remove the outer case and cage from the condenser unit after turning off the AC. Then, get a garden hose with a spray nozzle to clear the dirt. Lastly, dry the coils and reassemble them.

3. Check the condenser drain line:

Condensate drain lines are responsible for getting rid of excess moisture from the AC. To clean them, find the system’s drip pan underneath the air handler. Remove the water collected in the pan and wash it with warm water and soap. Once the pan is clean, put it back under the air handler. 

Afterwards, find the exit point of the drain line located outside the AC unit. Open its PVC cap and using a small brush, clean the debris and dirt. Lastly, find the access point of the condensation drain located near the air handler. Remove the PVC cap and pour hot water and vinegar mix into the access point to flush the drain line. Afterwards, replace the cap.

The components of your air conditioner need to be cleaned and maintained after every few months. It can help increase the system’s efficiency and reduce energy costs. AC maintenance can also prolong the life of your system and prevent you from spending the hefty central ac price in India.