As an apparent necessary evil of modern life, air conditioner maintenance and air conditioning repair are as inevitable as the seasons changing. If you do not maintain your AC system or take proper care of it, it is possible that you will end up having to face some undesirable situations. Therefore, it is vital to know that homeowners learn more about air conditioners and their functions. To find out more about how to maintain your AC, keep reading:

Troubleshooting

Even though it's not yet summer, it's still advisable to check your AC system before the weather gets too hot. If your AC isn't cooling, then check the temperature setting. It could be set too low. If the fan is blowing air, check the circuit breaker to make sure it's not tripped. If the breaker is tripped, reset it. If the breaker is working properly, the problem could be the air conditioner's capacitor.

When your AC is working but not cooling, it could be because of a dirty air filter. If a filter is dirty, the air conditioner will have to work harder. If it's still working too hard, there could be another problem, either with the air conditioner or your home's ductwork.

To extend the life of your AC, have a professional check your air conditioner once a year. An AC professional can also provide other AC-related services, such as duct cleaning and servicing the condensing unit to help prolong the life of your AC.

The Filter and Air Quality

The AC filter is an important part of the HVAC system. When it's clogged with dirt, dust, and pet dander, it blocks airflow, causing your AC to work harder. It also clogs up the evaporator coil, which forces the AC unit to use more energy.

One of the easiest ways to keep the HVAC system clean is to change out the air filter every three months. It's super easy to replace, and it saves you money on your energy bills. If you're serious about saving energy, you may want to consider a whole-home purification system. These systems clean the air throughout the house, eliminating odors, pollutants, and other unhealthy particles.

Ductwork and Blower Fans

Air leaks in the ductwork can be a major cause of energy loss. Repairing them will help improve the efficiency of your AC and the wear of its components. In addition to the ductwork, issues with the fan motors can also cause issues with airflow that affect the performance of your AC.

Problems with the fan motors in your air conditioner can cause problems with airflow that affect the performance of the AC unit. If the fan motor is older, it might be time for a replacement. To reduce the wear of the fan motors, make sure they are well-lubricated and check them for any minor damage that may need to be repaired.   

The AC Unit

In addition to changing the filter, it's important to clean the unit itself. If dirt, dust, and debris collect on the coils inside the unit, it makes it harder for the unit to properly cool the house.

It's also a good idea to schedule a maintenance visit each year. Technicians can check for leaks, corrosion, and other potential problems. They can also make sure the unit is running as efficiently as possible. These AC tune-up services are good to have done before the hot summer weather to ensure your AC is working efficiently, and without any problems when you need it.

Don't wait for a problem to develop, be proactive about keeping your AC clean and well maintained. Contact an AC maintenance service to get the help you need with the upkeep of your home's HVAC system.