Maintaining your air conditioning system is essential for optimal and efficient performance. To keep your HVAC system in top condition, there are a few steps you should take after a technician leaves from a tune up. First, it's important to clean the area around the outdoor unit at least once a month. Fallen leaves and dirt can accumulate near the unit and reduce its efficiency.
Additionally, keep all potted plants away from the unit and trim any tree branches that are too close. Tree branches should be at least 6 to 8 feet away from the condenser. The most important maintenance task is to replace or clean your filters on a regular basis. Dirty, clogged filters can reduce air flow and significantly decrease system efficiency. When air flow is obstructed, dirt can bypass the filter and deposit directly on the evaporator coil, which impairs its heat absorption capacity. Replacing a dirty filter with a clean one can reduce energy consumption by 5% to 15%.
It's also recommended that an HVAC technician check the air conditioner and heating system at least once a year, preferably before the temperature rises and the air conditioner starts working. Finally, don't stack any shelves, garden tools, or other outdoor equipment against the unit to avoid interruptions to the air conditioning system. When it comes to comfort in Florida, residents know how important their air conditioning system is.
