DIY AC Maintenance

When you think of the term “DIY,” your air conditioner probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. Your unit should receive a professional tune-up at least once a year, but what happens when the need for repair falls outside this window? When a problem arises in your system, there are a few maintenance tasks any homeowner can perform before calling in a professional!

At Air Tech of Katy, we’re committed to you and the needs of your HVAC system! Regular professional maintenance is essential, but your unit can benefit from more frequent care. Here are some home habits you can take up to keep your AC in tip-top shape.

4 Simple DIY AC Maintenance Tasks

Before beginning any maintenance, make sure to power off your system! Your air conditioner is powered by electricity and has many moving parts. Cleaning while the system is running is hazardous for you and your home.

Change Your Air Filter

In order to keep your air conditioner running smoothly, your air filter must be replaced at least every three months. Your AC circulates air throughout your home, keeping the indoors at a comfortable temperature. An air filter blocks dirt and other debris from flowing throughout your oxygen and helps keep you from getting sick!

If you don’t change your filter, your air conditioner may not operate correctly. The filter can become clogged, making your system work harder to keep your home cool. Not only does this increase your energy bill, but it can also cause wear and tear to your unit.

Straighten And Clean The Fins

Dirt can build up on the fins of your outdoor unit, calling for a cleaning! You can remove the outer cover and use a garden hose to rinse off the grime. If you notice the fins are crooked, you can use a butter knife to gently straighten them to the desired position.

Clear Area Around Outdoor Unit

Dirt and leaves can accumulate around your unit, especially during windy weather. You can clean the unit, and the space around it, using a broom and garden hose. If plant life or shrubbery is growing around your outdoor system, trim it occasionally to give your unit space to function.

Clean The Evaporator Coil

Over time, dust and dirt can accumulate in your evaporator coil. You can use a soft brush to dust away dirt from the coil surface. After this, a no-rinse coil cleaner can be applied to remove any stubborn leftover residue. This process will improve your system’s efficiency and keep it working properly!

Benefits Of A Seasonal AC Tune-Up

Although some DIY maintenance can be repaired, some tasks should be left to the professionals! A trained technician can detect most problems before they become more severe. Professional tune-ups have a variety of benefits, a few of which are:

• Longer system life expectancy
• Fewer breakdowns
• Increased energy efficiency
• Enhanced home comfort
• Lower energy bills

When it comes to a professional, you can rest easy knowing your air conditioner is in good hands.

Keep Cool With Katy AC Maintenance!

Like any other home system, your air conditioner needs a little TLC every now and then. If it’s time to schedule an annual tune-up, you can count on Air Tech of Katy to get the job done! Contact us today to speak with a customer service representative and schedule your next service.