Schedule a Pre-season Check-up for Your Air Conditioner

A pre-season check of your air conditioning system prior to the summer months can be a real money saver. Air conditioners at peak efficiency will use up to 20 percent less electricity and last years longer. A complete checkup should consist of following steps:

1.  Have refrigerant levels and condenser coils professionally checked.

2.  Check and clean filters regularly.  Reusable filters should be vacuumed twice a month, hand washed and dried.  Electronic air-cleaning filters should be cleaned.

3.  Check the filter door for fit and replace any damaged gaskets.

4.  Clean and lubricate the indoor blower unit regularly. (Always shut off the electrical power to the unit before lubricating the blower and motor bearings.)

5. On belt-driven units, check the belts for cracks and other damage. If the belt is badly damaged or worn, replace it.

6.  Check the housing of the unit outside your home. Keep all grass and shrubs at least 12 inches clear of the unit.

Having your air conditioner inspected and routine maintenance performed by a professional at least once a year is the best way to keep your air conditioner running in the proper order. Not only will you extend the life of your air conditioner, but the small cost of this work can actually save you money in the long run.

Caution: Before doing any work on an air conditioning system, make sure the power to the system, both to the condenser and to the evaporator assembly, is turned off. Always consult the unit’s maintenance and operation manual before making any check or repairs.

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