Maintaining an air conditioner is a crucial task that will ensure the unit functions normally when it is used during the summer. Preventative maintenance prevents costly air conditioner repairs on a hot summer day. Review a few air conditioner maintenance tips recommended by Northern's One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning®.

Check the Air Filter

The air filter for an air conditioner is used to prevent dirt from entering the system. If the air filter is too dirty, then the air conditioner will need to work harder to cool the house. Changing the air filter is a simple DIY air conditioner maintenance task for any homeowner. This will need to be done once each month when the air conditioner is being used.

Check Registers and Cold Air Returns

A central air conditioner uses the same ducts as your furnace. This means that debris that collects in the ducts can cause issues with an air conditioner. Remove registers and cold air returns and check to see if there is any debris or lint. Lint and any debris can easily be cleaned by using a vacuum. Keeping all the vents clean will improve air quality and make the air conditioner run more efficiently.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat for the heating and air conditioning system in a home needs to be tested periodically. If a thermostat is not reading temperature correctly, then the unit may be wasting energy. One way for a homeowner to perform a test of their thermostat is to use a digital thermometer. Take a reading of the room after running the unit. Compare the reading on the thermometer with the thermostat display. If the reading is not the same, then call a Minneapolis air conditioning company for advice.

Clean Outside Debris

Homeowners with any trees and bushes around their homes will need to make sure they are trimmed to allow the air conditioner to receive sufficient airflow. If airflow is blocked, then the unit will work harder to cool a home and use more energy in the process.

Additional Information

If you have any questions about air conditioner maintenance, then contact Northern's One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® at (763) 284-8639.