Central AC Maintenance: What Homeowners Can (and Should) Do

Why AC Maintenance Matters

A well-maintained AC:

• Uses 15-25% less energy
• Breaks down 95% less often
• Lasts 5-7 years longer
• Keeps warranty valid
• Provides better cooling

The best part? Many maintenance tasks are simple enough for homeowners.

Monthly DIY Tasks

1. Check and Replace Air Filter

Why It's Important: A dirty filter is the #1 cause of AC problems and service calls.

How to Do It: 1. Locate filter (usually in return air vent or air handler) 2. Remove filter and hold up to light 3. If you can't see light through it, replace it 4. Note filter size on frame (e.g., 16x25x1) 5. Insert new filter with airflow arrow pointing toward unit

Frequency: Check monthly, replace every 1-3 months

2. Keep Outdoor Unit Clear

Why It's Important: Blocked airflow reduces efficiency and can damage compressor.

How to Do It: 1. Clear leaves, grass clippings, and debris 2. Trim bushes and plants back 2 feet 3. Remove any items stored near unit 4. Ensure nothing is stacked on or against unit

Frequency: Check weekly during mowing season

3. Check Thermostat Operation

Why It's Important: Catching problems early prevents uncomfortable days.

How to Do It: 1. Set to cooling mode 2. Set temperature below current room temp 3. AC should start within a few minutes 4. Feel for cool air at vents within 15 minutes 5. Check batteries annually (if applicable)

Frequency: Monthly during cooling season

Seasonal DIY Tasks (Spring & Fall)

4. Clean Outdoor Unit

Why It's Important: Dirt on condenser coils makes your AC work harder.

How to Do It: 1. Turn off AC power (breaker or disconnect) 2. Remove large debris by hand 3. Gently spray coils with garden hose (from inside out) 4. Avoid pressure washers - can damage fins 5. Let dry before restoring power

Frequency: Once in spring, once mid-summer if needed

5. Inspect Visible Ductwork

Why It's Important: Leaks waste up to 30% of cooled air.

What to Look For:

• Disconnected sections
• Visible holes or tears
• Crushed or kinked ducts
• Missing insulation

Frequency: Twice per year

6. Clear Condensate Drain

Why It's Important: Clogged drains cause water damage and mold growth.

How to Do It: 1. Locate drain line (PVC pipe near indoor unit) 2. Pour 1 cup white vinegar or bleach into drain 3. Wait 30 minutes 4. Flush with water 5. Check that water flows freely outside

Frequency: Every 1-3 months during cooling season

7. Check Insulation on Refrigerant Lines

Why It's Important: Missing insulation reduces efficiency.

What to Look For:

• The larger copper line (suction line) should be insulated
• Check for gaps, tears, or missing sections
• Look for ice (indicates potential problem)

Action: Foam insulation tape is available at hardware stores

Frequency: Once per year

What to Leave to Professionals

Refrigerant Work

Why: Requires EPA certification, special equipment, and training. Improper handling is illegal and dangerous.

Includes:

• Checking refrigerant levels
• Repairing leaks
• Adding refrigerant

Electrical Work

Why: Risk of shock, fire, and damaging expensive components.

Includes:

• Capacitor testing/replacement
• Contactor inspection
• Wiring repairs
• Electrical testing

Internal Cleaning

Why: Delicate components easily damaged.

Includes:

• Evaporator coil cleaning
• Blower motor cleaning
• Internal inspections

Combustion Equipment

Why: Safety risk from gas leaks and carbon monoxide.

Includes:

• Furnace/heat pump inspection
• Heat exchanger inspection
• Gas connections

Professional Tune-Up Checklist

A pro should check these annually:

Electrical:

• Amp draw on motors
• Capacitor condition
• Electrical connections
• Safety controls

Mechanical:

• Refrigerant charge
• Coil condition
• Blower components
• Bearing lubrication

Airflow:

• Temperature differential
• Static pressure
• Ductwork condition

Safety:

• CO testing (if applicable)
• Gas connections
• Emergency shutoffs

Creating a Maintenance Schedule

Monthly

• Check/replace filter
• Clear outdoor unit
• Listen for unusual sounds

Quarterly

• Clean condensate drain
• Inspect visible ducts
• Test thermostat

Annually (Spring)

• Professional tune-up
• Clean outdoor coils
• Check refrigerant lines
• Inspect all components

Signs You Need Immediate Service

Call a professional if you notice:

• Ice on any component
• Water leaking inside
• Burning smell
• No cool air despite running
• Strange loud noises
• Breaker tripping repeatedly
• System won't turn on

The ROI of Maintenance

Cost of Annual Tune-Up: $80-150

Potential Savings:

• Avoided repair: $200-500
• Energy savings: 15-25%
• Extended lifespan: 5+ years
• Maintained warranty: Priceless

Our Recommendation

Handle the monthly and seasonal DIY tasks yourself - they're simple and make a real difference. Schedule professional maintenance once per year in spring before cooling season starts.

This combination maximizes equipment life while minimizing costs.