You want your air conditioner to last as long as possible, but you might not realize there are things you need to do to keep it running efficiently. Below are some tips for air conditioning maintenance as well as some signs that you may need a professional, such as Art Newsome, Inc., to inspect and repair your air conditioning system.

Outdoor Maintenance

First, it is important to keep the area around the air conditioner outside free of foliage and any other blockage. Next, you should clean the outside coils annually. You can turn off the power at the breaker if you are worried about getting a shock. The coils can be cleaned with a mild detergent that is then rinsed off.

Indoor Maintenance

Your air conditioning filter needs to be changed a few times a year. If you have pets, you may need to change it more frequently. You might also want to make sure you are using your air conditioner efficiently. For example, it may be more cost-effective to let the air conditioner to run at a low temperature all the time than to turn it off every time you leave the house and then crank it up to cool the house back down when you return.

Signs of Problems

In addition to doing your own maintenance, it is generally a good idea to have a professional inspect your HVAC system annually. You may need to contact AC repair Hampton VA if you notice that the air is no longer cold, that the air coming out smells musty or that the unit is making a grinding sound. If the unit is leaking or your bills are increasing for no apparent reason, you may also need to have the unit repaired.

A working air conditioner can be critical to your family’s health and comfort during the summer months. Keeping it well-maintained is important in making sure it works for as long and as efficiently as possible.