Air conditioners are some of the most essential systems to have in your home or commercial building, especially during the hot months. You won't have to worry about the high temperatures outside because these systems can help you keep your interiors comfortably cool. But like all mechanical systems, proper maintenance is critical for your air conditioning unit to run smoothly and efficiently. Neglecting AC maintenance will result in reduced efficiency, frequent and costly repairs, high energy costs, and poor indoor air quality, among other issues.

You can do a lot when it comes to maintaining and taking care of your air conditioning unit. Read below for a checklist to help you accomplish this task.

Clean/Replace The Air Filters Regularly

The air filters are some of the most crucial components of your air conditioning system. Their primary function is to filter contaminants in the air like pollen, dust, and pet hair to ensure proper indoor air quality. Air filters also facilitate airflow, ideal for your system's efficiency. Typically, the air filters will become clogged with contaminants over time. And it's imperative that you clean or change them when this happens. Clogged air filters will restrict proper airflow and impact your system's efficiency. Therefore, be sure to inspect the air filters frequently and clean or replace them as needed.

Check The Fins

These are the small metal prongs protecting your AC's condenser coils. These coils may become clogged with debris over time, obstructing airflow and reducing your system's efficiency. Usually, the fins will be found on the outdoor unit (if your system has one). A garden hose should get the job done but ensure it's on a low setting because excessive pressure can damage the fins, which is why you shouldn't use a pressure washer. You can remove the condenser lid and spray the fins from the inside out for the best results.

The fins are prone to bending because they are naturally delicate. Therefore, it's not unusual to find bent fins on your unit. Bent fins can also obstruct airflow, so it's vital to straighten them. Doing this isn't usually complicated. A butter knife or fin comb should get the job done but remember to be gentle not to damage them.

Inspect The System For Air Leaks

You can lose a significant volume of airflow through leaks, which would be detrimental to the system's efficiency. Therefore, inspect the system for air leaks. You can use a smoke pencil near the duct connections to determine if the smoke changes direction. Placing a fog machine near the intake fan is another way to detect air leaks. You may be able to spot the leaks as the fog flows through the system. However, it's always best to work with a professional when it comes to detecting and fixing leaks.

For more information, contact an air conditioning maintenance service near you.