If you have an AC unit in your home, you need to ensure that it is well maintained so that it keeps functioning efficiently for a long time. AC maintenance does not necessarily require you to spend hours checking the different parts; often a few simple steps that you can do on your own along with the periodic air conditioner maintenance service by a professional can greatly improve the longevity of the AC system. 

The AC systems, just like any other electronic device are made of a series of complicated parts that are susceptible to wear and tear due to daily usage. The repairs mostly happen due to lack of maintenance at regular intervals. Many AC repair professionals suggest that the best time to carry out the maintenance work of the AC unit is before the start of the summer months. The AC units that are serviced at regular intervals and maintained well are less prone to breakdowns and they keep functioning at their optimum capacity for long.

Before you start any maintenance work, it is paramount that you shut the power off and remove the wires from the socket. The experts suggest that if you do not understand about the functioning of a certain part, avoid touching it or fiddling with it. If you try to experiment with it, it may affect the working of the part, which in turn would increase the risk of causing serious damage to your AC unit. Remember, incorrect handling of the parts can lead to new issues developing and it may lead to expensive repairs. So make sure that your DIY maintenance works is restricted to doing only a few basic things and keep it limited to:

The filters are one of the most vulnerable parts of the AC that often gets affected by the dust, filth, and other alien particles. It is therefore important that you clean the filters regularly. During the summers, you may use the AC on a daily basis, during this period it is advisable that you clean the filters at least once every month. If your AC unit has disposable air filters, then the experts suggest that you replace the same every three months depending on the frequency of your usage; you may need to change more often if the usage is high. 

One of the most important facets of air conditioning systems is the air flow. Most modern ac units’ function on the concept of forced air and their cooling process greatly depends on having the right air flow. This implies that the condensing units, which are placed outdoors need sufficient amount of space around them to facilitate proper flow of air. 

Therefore, make sure that there is enough free space around the condensing unit of your air conditioner. It is advisable that you place the condenser at such a location that there are no obstructions around. Experts recommend that there should be an open space of at least three feet around the condenser. So avoid keeping plants, flower pots or any other decorative and landscaping materials around the unit. 

Since the condenser sucks the air to generate air flow for cooling the air inside the home it is vulnerable to pull in the debris and dust, which often gets stuck on the vents. If these dust particles are left un-cleansed it not only affect the air flow inside the home but also increase the risk of causing damage to the filters. It is therefore paramount that you clean the condenser regularly. The process is simple, shut the power off the unit and just spray water over the unit using a high pressure garden hose. The AC repair experts suggest that while cleaning the condenser you must be careful to handle the coils with care so that you do not damage or bend the fins.