How to Keep Your AC Running Efficiently?

Maintaining your air conditioning systems can help you save on money and ensure it lasts its full lifespan. One of the most important aspects of keeping your AC unit well maintained is getting proper air conditioning repair in Douglasville as needed. This helps ensure it stays functional for years to come and won’t lead to further costly repairs down the road. Here are a few important tips to keep your AC unit running efficiently for you and your family.

Shut the Power Off

The last thing you want to do is work around electricity while having it still running. The first step you should take to maintain your AC unit is to shut off the power before cleaning the fins and removing debris from inside the machine. There should be an exterior shut-off box near the unit, simply switch the device off until you’re done maintaining it.

Clean the Fins

The next thing you should do to properly maintain your AC unit is to clean the fins using a shop vacuum to remove any dirt and debris that might be affecting its performance. After using the vacuum, you should use a garden hose to spray down the fins and remove any remaining dirt and grime. However, you should avoid using a pressure washer to clean the fins of your AC unit since it can permanently damage them. You should also consider buying a fin cleaning solution, which can be bought at most home improvement centers and online retailers.

Remove Debris Inside the Unit

Following cleaning the fins, you should remove the fan cage to remove any debris inside the unit. You should use a wrench or screwdriver to remove the fasteners securing the cage and life it away from the unit. Then, you can either remove the debris by hand or use a vacuum to clean your AC unit of dirt, leaves, sticks, and other debris. 

Clean Around the Unit

After you’ve finished cleaning the inside of the AC unit, replace the cage back on the unit and secure it with the fasteners you removed. The next thing you want to do is remove any leaves, dirt, sticks, and other debris from the exterior of the unit. After all, the last thing you want is these foreign objects going back into the unit and wear it down. Not doing this can lead to costly air conditioning repair in Douglasville. During the winter, you should cover your AC unit to prevent heavy snow and ice from damaging the shell. But, you shouldn’t cover it completely, or else moisture can build up and cause damaging corrosion.