Air Conditioner Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Air Conditioning
Bathrooms
Cabinets
Carpet
Chimneys
Concrete
Countertops
Decks
Decorating
Doors
Driveways
Drywall
Electrical
Energy Savings
Fences
Fireplaces
Floors
Gardens
Garage Doors
Gutters
Heating
Insects
Inspections
Insulation
Kitchen
Landscaping
Lawns
Lighting
Miscellaneous
Painting/Staining
Patio
Plumbing
Remodeling
Retaining Walls
Roofing
Security Systems
Siding
Stucco
Trade Shows
Wallpaper
Windows

Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips and Advice
By Jerry Holt

Doug S. from Atlanta, GA wrote:

Dear DIY Today,

My air conditioner hasn't been running as well as it should. Can you give me some basic air condition maintenance advice?

The first place to look is in your owners manual. I'm assuming you can't locate it so I'll provide some troubleshooting tips on air conditioner maintenance.

1. Check the filters. Replacing the filters is a good idea even when your air conditioner is working well.

2. Keep the air conditioning coils clean. This will help your system run at a lower temperature, use less amperage and your compressor will operate with more efficiency.

3. Keep the compressor casement clean and free of debris. Make sure any plants or shrubs are trimmed away from the casement and wash all dirt off of it. When the compressor casement is dirty it places unnecessary strain on the compressor.

4. Check the ducts periodically. These can get dirty and even clogged over a period of time.

5. In the off season use a air conditioner cover. This will help keep it clean when not in use.

Related Tips and Advice: