What are some air conditioner maintenance tips?

The most important thing you can do to properly maintain your central air conditioner system is to clean it regularly. Failing to consistently clean your cooling system results in:

• Higher energy bills
• Decreased cooling efficiency
• Higher repair costs
• Shorter appliance life

Three elements make up a central air conditioner system with electricity as its power source. They are:

• An outdoor section (the condensing unit)
• An indoor section (furnace/indoor coil)
• Ductwork to transfer the cooled air throughout the home

Follow manufacturer’s routine maintenance directions and have the entire system checked once a year by a qualified service technician.

Here are some steps homeowners can take to maintain the efficiency of their central air conditioning system and to save on energy costs:

• Replaceable filters should be replaced every 30 to 60 days, and it’s best to get maximum efficiency filters
• Keep windows and doors closed when the air conditioner is running
• Caulk and weather-strip windows and doors to seal air gaps
• Close drapes and shades over windows facing the sun