|
A central air conditioning system can provide years of satisfactory cooling with relatively little maintenance. However, a seasonal start-up check and periodic maintenance is recommended.
Homeowner Checklist
The amount of do-it-yourself air conditioning maintenance a homeowner can do is limited. However, there are a few steps that can help the system operate trouble-free and minimize the potential for consequential damage. Ensuring adequate airflow is perhaps the most important homeowner responsibility.
Homeowners can (following manufacturer instructions):
- Clean or replace the filter(s) regularly.
- Keep leaves and other debris off the condensing unit.
- Keep the condensing coils clean by carefully brushing and hosing them.
- Keep shrubs and other plant growth that might obstruct airflow at least 18 inches away from the condenser.
- Maintain insulation on ductwork in attics and other unconditioned areas.
- Check the condensate drain for any sign of blockage or leakage. Water should be dripping from this drainline when the unit is running.
- Keep room input and return registers clear of furniture or other obstructions.
Selecting Trained Professionals
If your air conditioner needs more than the regular maintenance described here, consult a qualified air conditioning technician. A well-trained professional can provide a thorough pre-season or maintenance evaluation and servicing as needed. Insufficiently trained service technicians forsake proper diagnostic procedures and often only perform stop-gap measures to keep a unit going. Such short-sightedness can have a drastic effect on other components leading to consequential failure of the entire system.
At a minimum, a technician should:
- Check that the system contains the correct amount of refrigerant.
- Test for refrigerant leaks.
- Check for and seal duct leakage.
- Clean the blower components.
- Measure airflow through the evaporator coil.
- Verify the correct electric control sequence.
- Inspect electric terminals, clean and tighten connections.
- Oil motors and check belts for tightness and wear.
- Check the condensate system for backup or leakage.
- Check operating temperatures and pressures.
- Check the accuracy of the thermostat.
| 
