You’ve probably heard the term “spring cleaning.” If you are creating a checklist for tidying up your home ahead of the spring season, we have some items that you can add that will benefit your air conditioner. It’s a great idea to take a look at your air conditioner both inside and out to make sure that it is ready to keep your home cool this spring and summer. For guidance on maintaining peak performance, consider these tips for boosting AC efficiency this spring.
What easy HVAC maintenance tasks can homeowners do monthly?
- Pour vinegar into the condensate drain line monthly to prevent mold growth and avoid clogs.
- Clear debris and gently rinse the outdoor unit, brushing away leaves and straightening bent fins to improve heat release and energy efficiency.
If you notice anything unusual during your AC checkup, you can call our team to schedule an appointment for AC maintenance in Wylie, TX. In the meantime, you can keep reading to learn about the steps that you should take to get your air conditioner ready for spring and summer. If those issues seem more serious, take a moment to review the top signs your AC system needs repair before calling in a technician.
Change the Air Filter
Your first step should be to check the intake area where air comes into your AC. If you still have the same old filter in place from last year, go ahead and change it out. Make sure you note on your air filter whether it needs to be changed once a month or every three months, because this can vary.
It’s also a good idea to write the date on the filter, so you know exactly when you put it into place. Then use your calendar or phone to create a reminder of when the air filter needs to be changed out. Ideally, you should check it a little sooner, and if it is particularly dirty, go ahead and replace it with a clean filter.
Clean the Condensate Drain Line
Your next step is to rinse out the condensate drain line onto your air conditioner. The condensate drain line is where your air conditioner collects humidity from the air and channels it outside as droplets to help your home feel more comfortable.
Unfortunately, the condensate drain line is very prone to mold growth. In addition to this being dangerous for your home and family, mold growth can also contribute to condensate drain line clogs that lead to leaks and water damage. By pouring some vinegar into the condensate drain line once each month, you reduce the chances of a mold infestation by destroying those spores.
Check the Outdoor Unit
It’s also a good idea to take a close look at the outdoor portion of your air conditioner. It’s easy for leaves and sticks to blow into the unit and get trapped between the fins. Gently brush away debris and straighten any fins that were bent. You can even select a gentle water pressure on your hose and use it to rinse out dirt buildup.
This can help your air conditioner release heat outside more effectively to boost cooling and even save you on your monthly energy costs. To further extend your system’s life, check out Mr. Air Repair’s secret to an unstoppable AC. And it’s not just a step to complete as a part of spring maintenance. You should be checking your outdoor unit and completing the steps above at least once each month for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What should homeowners do first in an AC maintenance check?
Answer: The first step is to change the air filter. Homeowners should check the intake area and replace the filter if it’s still the one from last year. Record the date on the filter and set a reminder for its next replacement, filters are typically changed every 1–3 months, depending on usage.
Question: How can I clean the condensate drain line and how often should it be done?
Answer: Pouring vinegar into the condensate drain line once a month helps prevent mold buildup and clogs. This is important for preventing water damage and maintaining efficient drainage.
Question: What maintenance steps should I take for the outdoor AC unit?
Answer: Regularly check the outdoor unit, remove debris like leaves and sticks, gently brush clean, straighten bent fins, and rinse away dirt using gentle water pressure. These actions help the system release heat more effectively, improving efficiency. Aim to do this at least once a month.
Question: Is professional AC maintenance still necessary if I follow a checklist?
Answer: Yes, even with regular at-home care, scheduling annual professional maintenance is crucial. Technicians can inspect deeper system components, check refrigerant levels, and catch issues homeowners might miss, helping extend the life and performance of the unit.
Contact Mr. Air Repair today to schedule an appointment with our professionals and reap the rewards of a more efficient and reliable HVAC system.