As homeowners, we’re all well aware of the constant maintenance that goes into keeping our homes in good condition. However, something that’s often overlooked in the maintenance department is air conditioners.We usually don’t even notice them until they’re not working! However, with proper maintenance, your air conditioning system will continue to keep you and your family comfortable for many years.

Here in Brisbane, the best time of the year for an air conditioning checkup is when the days start getting warmer from September through November. Don’t wait for the first scorcher of a day in December to switch on your unit and discover that it’s not working.

What Maintenance Can You Do Yourself?

Changing and cleaning air conditioning filters is an easy do-it-yourself project that you should do every few months. Dirty filters create problems. They reduce efficiency by restricting airflow, often causing a buildup of ice on the unit’s evaporator. Replace all dirty disposable fiberglass filters ASAP. Electronic and electrostatic filters need to be washed frequently for best operation.

Another easy air conditioning maintenance job the homeowner can take responsibility for is making sure the outside condensing unit is clutter free. The condenser needs to draw air into the system to cool and circulate through your home. Make sure you don’t stack bags of lawn clippings, patio furniture or anything else against the condenser during the off season, essentially cutting off the air supply.

What Maintenance Is Best Done By An Expert?

Other than routine cleaning, it’s best to call in a professional air conditioning service company to do your air conditioning maintenance. Professional checkups of central air conditioning systems should be done annually every spring before the start of the cooling season.

A professional checkup is the best way to make sure your air conditioning unit will run well and keep you cool all summer. In addition, it may also disclose any small problems that could end up being expensive problems in the future. A checkup will is the best way to make sure your unit is running at peak efficiency.

Here are some air conditioning maintenance requirements best left to the experts:

• Oiling of motors if needed.
• Calibration of the thermostat.
• Cleaning of air ducts and vents.
• Cleaning of condenser and evaporator coils.
• Checking for correct Freon (refrigerant) levels.
• Checking of all electrical workings and controls.

Also, if your residential air conditioner or commercial air conditioner is more than ten years old, your local service person can show you how you can save money on utility bills with a more up-to-date, energy efficient unit.

Modern air conditioners are fairly complex. But if you do simple maintenance tasks yourself and schedule a professional service call at least once a year, you should be able to enjoy cost-effective and trouble-free performance for the lifetime of your unit.