Homeowner Checklist

The amount of do-it-yourself air conditioning maintenance a homeowner can do is limited. However, there are a few steps that can help the system operate trouble-free and minimize the potential for consequential damage. Ensuring adequate airflow is perhaps the most important homeowner responsibility.

Homeowners can (following manufacturer instructions):

  • Clean or replace the filter(s) regularly.
  • Keep leaves and other debris off the condensing unit.
  • Keep the condensing coils clean by carefully brushing and hosing them.
  • Keep shrubs and other plant growth that might obstruct airflow at least 18 inches away from the condenser.
  • Maintain insulation on ductwork in attics and other unconditioned areas.
  • Check the condensate drain for any sign of blockage or leakage. Water should be dripping from this drainline when the unit is running.
  • Keep room input and return registers clear of furniture or other obstructions.

Selecting Trained Professionals

If your air conditioner needs more than the regular maintenance described here, consult a qualified air conditioning technician. A well-trained professional can provide a thorough pre-season or maintenance evaluation and servicing as needed. Insufficiently trained service technicians forsake proper diagnostic procedures and often only perform stop-gap measures to keep a unit going. Such short-sightedness can have a drastic effect on other components leading to consequential failure of the entire system.

At a minimum, a technician should:

  • Check that the system contains the correct amount of refrigerant.
  • Test for refrigerant leaks.
  • Check for and seal duct leakage.
  • Clean the blower components.
  • Measure airflow through the evaporator coil.
  • Verify the correct electric control sequence.
  • Inspect electric terminals, clean and tighten connections.
  • Oil motors and check belts for tightness and wear.
  • Check the condensate system for backup or leakage.
  • Check operating temperatures and pressures.
  • Check the accuracy of the thermostat.