HVAC Articles from Service Finders

 

Categories - Inspecting For Problems

Helpful Check Lists For Annual Air Conditioning Maintenance

BACK

Let's face it: air conditioning equipment is subject to extreme duty and will probably take quite a beating. You can combat the effects of misuse and abuse with good annual maintenance. Well-maintained air conditioners will perform better and can contribute to overall satisfaction. While some maintenance like inspecting and cleaning the indoor return air filters should be performed on a monthly basis, there are additional steps that should be taken annually by qualified personnel.

We suggest the following annual maintenance for central air conditioners:

1. Clear the coils and drain pan of all debris (lint, dirt, leaves, paper, etc.). Make sure there are no obstructions to airflow or condensate and check for air leaks around the sealing surface.

2. Clean the coils and drain pan with a soft brush and compressed air or vacuum. Take care not to bend the aluminum fins and protect all electrical components from any water or spray. Allow the unit to dry completely.

3. Inspect all gasket material for deterioration and replace as necessary.

4. Check the indoor blower housing, blower wheel, condenser fan blade and condenser shroud and clean them of any debris including mold and fungus. An antibacterial/antifungal cleaner may be used on the blower housing and blower wheel. Rinse with warm water and allow complete drying.

5. Inspect all the control components, both electrical and mechanical, as well as the power supply to insure they are working properly.

6. Check around the unit both indoors and outdoors to ensure that the required clearances have been maintained. For example, make sure that outdoor shrubbery has not grown in such a way as to block outdoor airflow. Trim back any plants that may flourish in the spring and summer months, creating a problem later.

7. Clean all obstructions or debris from the sleeve and drain system using an antibacterial/antifungal cleanser. Rinse with warm water and allow to dry thoroughly. Check the sealant around the sleeve and reseal any areas as needed.

8. Clean the front cover using a mild detergent and rinse with warm water. Allow the cover to dry completely before reinstalling it to the chassis.

Following these annual maintenance suggestions should help prevent performance problems when it counts the most. And when purchasing new units, remember to look for features that make routine maintenance easier. This will save time and money. For example, are filters easily accessible?

BACK

Home Services

Contractor Locations

Service Finders accepts no responsibility for any services rendered by listed companies.

Terms & Conditions