How to Keep Your A/C Unit Running Fine

Your home's air-conditioning unit will need regular maintenance to function optimally. According to the United States Department of Energy, "keeping the filter clean can lower your air conditioner's energy consumption by 5% to 15%." Some problems with your air conditioner will require an experienced technician, but for regular maintenance, most tasks can be accomplished relatively easily. The most important thing to remember is to replace the filters often. Some filters can be cleaned and reused; others will need to be replaced.

Replacement filters
Wet/dry vac
Paintbrush
Plastic cover or tarp

Instructions

- 1
  Replace your air conditioner's filters. Some air conditioners have a filter mounted into the grill which faces the room, other filters are located in the ceiling or in the unit itself. If you're using the air conditioner daily, clean or replace the filters every other month or per the instructions for your unit.
- 2
  Check the drain line of the central air-conditioning unit to make sure that it's not cracked or clogged. A clog can be removed using the hose attachment of a wet/dry vacuum.
- 3
  Clean the area around the air conditioner's main unit. Remove any debris, dirt, leaves or other greenery that may get into the unit. Wipe the vents with a dry paintbrush to remove dust.
- 4
  Inspect the seal around the air-conditioning unit. If the seal is cracked or damaged, cool air will escape from your home.
- 5
  Cover the unit in the off-season to keep it protected from winter weather.

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