Home Garden

How to Recondition an Air Conditioner

Your home’s air conditioner can last for over a decade if cared for properly, including regular maintenance. Each year before the weather turns warm, you need to make sure that your air conditioner is ready for use by reconditioning it. Reconditioning is just checking that everything is in working condition and performing routine maintenance on the unit.

Things You'll Need

  • Gauge
  • Amperage checker
  • Refrigerant (if necessary)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Turn off the power to the air conditioner from the circuit breaker to avoid any problems while you’re reconditioning your air conditioner.

    • 2

      Look at the air conditioner casing to see if any weeds or other vegetation is growing into or touching the unit. Clear the plants away from the unit if necessary. Check for any leaves, lint or other debris in the unit’s vents and remove them.

    • 3

      Check for corrosion to any of the connections on the unit. Replace any rusted connections if necessary.

    • 4

      Connect an amperage reader to the unit by placing the reader's prong on the electrodes. Check that the readings are within the range indicated for your model of air conditioner. Check the service manual if you don’t know the correct amperage readings.

    • 5

      Place the gauge manifolds over the air conditioner lines to measure the pressure on the line. Check the charge chart on the side of the air conditioner or in the service manual to verify that the readings are within the correct range. Add refrigerant if they are not.

    • 6

      Check the filter in your air conditioner for blockages or debris. Change it if necessary.