5 Tips For Maintaining Your Air Conditioning

During the sweltering Australian summer, an air conditioner is an invaluable addition to your home or business. Should your AC unit break down or cease to work effectively, your property will soar to uncomfortable temperatures, providing little relief from the summer sun.

Fortunately, there are measures you can take to maintain your air conditioning unit, whilst also conserving energy at the same time. Here are our five top tips for maintaining your air conditioning unit.

1. Wash and clean the air filter regularly

The air filter in your AC unit prevents dust and debris from recirculating in the air. In order for the filter to work effectively, the air should be able to flow freely through it, without an excess of particulate matter building up. If the air filter in your AC is blocked, the unit will use more energy when cooling the property and the air quality will deteriorate.

Consult your manufacturer's guide for how to safely remove, clean and replace your air conditioning filter. This should be carried out every one to three months, depending on how frequently you use your air conditioning.

2. Clean the condenser unit coil and fan

Your AC unit contains two types of coil that function to control the temperature of your property. The condenser and evaporator coil gather contaminants over time which prevent the unit from functioning efficiently. A cost-effective way to maintain your air conditioning is to clean the coils regularly.

The condenser coil is located outdoors within the condenser unit and is responsible for absorbing and removing heat from the property. To clean this coil, disconnect the AC unit from the electrical breaker and remove the top and side covers of the condenser. Remove any large debris by hand before using a vacuum to clear the remainder of the contaminant. Clear out any blockages from the protective grill before spraying the inside of the unit with coil cleaner and rinsing down with water.

This should be carried out approximately twice a year.

3. Clean the evaporator coil

The evaporator coil can be found within the internal unit and is responsible for cooling the air that blows into the house. To clean this coil, begin by turning off the AC's power. Locate and brush down the coil before spraying with coil cleaner. Use a small amount of water to rinse the coil down before fixing the fins and reassembling the unit.

To ensure your air conditioning is working effectively, clean the evaporator coil twice per year.

4. Arrange a condensate drain inspection

The condensate drain is an important part of any air conditioning system because it lets the moisture that builds up inside the system drain outside. Over time, the condensate drain can get clogged up, making it hard for water to drain. If you notice that the water isn't draining from your unit, you can make a service request for an AC expert to come and look at it.

5. Regular professional maintenance

Caring for your air conditioning will not only save you money on your electricity bill but will also prolong the lifespan of your unit. Scheduling regular annual maintenance with an AC professional will ensure your unit is functioning as it should be and will prevent any issues from escalating into expensive repairs.

At Jervis Bay Air Conditioning, we provide homes and businesses across New South Wales with professional air conditioning maintenance. Our comprehensive service ensures all aspects of your unit are clean and functioning effectively for maximum performance.

To speak to our team of experts and book your AC maintenance, contact us today.