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Complete AC Maintenance Checklist for Central Air & Window Units
6 minute read • Last update November 2024
A well-maintained air conditioning system is your home’s unsung hero when temperatures rise during the hot Texas summers. Regular AC maintenance extends the lifespan of your HVAC system while helping you save money on energy bills and costly repairs.
In this handy guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about air conditioner maintenance for both central systems and window units. You’ll learn:
- What tools you’ll need to conduct regular air conditioner maintenance
- How to inspect units for signs of wear and tear
- How to clean an outside AC unit
- How to clean air conditioner coils, filters, and other components
- How often to service your air conditioner
Tools you’ll need for AC maintenance
Only a qualified HVAC contractor should perform a full AC tune-up and service. However, you can take care of basic air conditioner cleaning and maintenance yourself. Whether you want to learn how to clean a window air conditioner or a central AC system, the tools you’ll need are the same:
- Screwdrivers for accessing internal components
- A soft bristle brush for gently cleaning evaporator and condenser coils
- Replacement air filters
- A garden hose with a gentle spray nozzle for safely washing the outdoor AC unit
- Microfiber cloths for wiping surfaces
- A fin comb for straightening bent coil fins
- Duct tape for securing small air leaks
- A vacuum to remove dust from the air handler and ducts
With your toolkit assembled, you’re ready to tackle basic AC maintenance in preparation for the cooling season.
Central AC maintenance checklist
A central system controls the temperature throughout your home through a network of ducts. The cooling system consists of an outdoor condenser unit, extensive ductwork, several indoor vents, and a thermostat. The following central AC maintenance tips help to ensure proper airflow and enhanced indoor air quality.
Inspect air filters
Knowing how to clean an AC filter is essential, as this simple task is your first defense against poor airflow in your home. Check each air filter monthly and remove dust buildup to ensure optimal performance. If filters look dirty, replace them—most HVAC specialists recommend changing filters every three months.
Check thermostat settings
Set the thermostat to the correct summer temperature and test to ensure the system responds correctly. If you have a programmable thermostat, ensure the timings suit your household’s needs.
Inspect the outdoor unit (condenser)
Remove any debris or vegetation that might block airflow and affect the system’s efficiency. Use a garden hose on a gentle spray setting to clean the condenser coil. Avoid high pressure, which may damage the coil fins.
Clean the evaporator coil
Learning how to clean AC coils is critical, as this is the part of your system that cools the air. What’s more, it’s easier than the average homeowner expects. Simply open the access panel and gently remove dust from the coil and surrounding area using a soft bristle brush.
Check refrigerant levels
The refrigerant lines are attached to the outdoor AC unit. Look for signs of refrigerant leaks, such as ice or oily residue. If levels appear low or there’s a visible refrigerant leak, call a licensed HVAC professional to handle repair and recharging.
Inspect and clean the drain line
Check the condensate drain line for clogs that could cause water to back up and damage your system or property. Then, flush the drain line using a mild bleach and water solution to prevent mold growth.
Check the blower and fan motors
Use a microfiber cloth to clean the blower motor and fan blades. Look for signs of wear or damage that could reduce energy efficiency, and tighten or replace any loose or damaged parts as needed.
Inspect ductwork for leaks
Ductwork is typically located in your attic, basement, and wall cavities. Examine and vacuum all visible sections, using duct tape or HVAC sealant to repair small leaks. Contact professional services for a full inspection if you suspect larger leaks in hard-to-see areas.
Test electrical components
Check all electrical connections and components for signs of corrosion or loose wires. Tighten, replace, or contact an HVAC technician accordingly, depending on what you find. It’s also a good idea to run a few tests to ensure the system powers on and off correctly.
Window AC unit maintenance checklist
Window AC units are individual room air conditioners designed for cooling smaller spaces. Each unit is mounted on a window frame with a front-facing panel inside and the back portion hanging outside. Unlike central systems, there’s no internal ductwork, meaning cool air is delivered directly into the room where each indoor unit is installed.
Even though they’re smaller systems, learning how to clean a window AC unit is still essential to ensure safe operation and reduced energy costs. Here are the steps to follow.
Clean or replace air filters
Here’s how to clean an air conditioner filter on a window AC setup:
- Remove the air filter from behind the unit’s front grille
- Wash it with mild soap and water
- Let it dry completely
- Reinstall
To keep your system running smoothly, you should replace rather than clean filters every three months.
Inspect and clean the coils
A window AC system has two separate coils to clean: the indoor evaporator coil and the outdoor condenser coil. Use a soft brush to clean both sets to prevent dust or dirt buildup from restricting airflow.
Check and clean the fan blades
Clean blades improve air circulation and reduce the strain on the unit. Remove the cover and wipe the fan blades with a microfiber cloth to remove dirt that could lead to increased energy consumption.
Inspect and clean the condenser fins
Check for proper alignment and straighten any bent fins using a fin comb. Then, gently brush away dust or debris. Take care not to apply excess pressure that may rebend the fins.
Check the window seal
Inspect the window seals where the unit contacts the window frame and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps or cracks.
Drain the water pan
When your system is in operation, the residual condensate drains into a pan at the bottom of the unit. You’ll need to empty and clean the condensate drain pan regularly to prevent mold or mildew buildup—especially in humid conditions.
Check electrical connections
Inspect each wire and connector carefully. Look for signs of wear, such as frayed wires, corrosion, or discoloration, which can indicate overheating. Tighten any loose connections to ensure proper operation.
Inspect the thermostat
Turn the unit on and set the thermostat to your desired temperature. Monitor how quickly it cools the room and whether it cycles correctly. If you have a programmable thermostat, check the timing settings are appropriate.
Clean the exterior
If you live above ground level, you’ll need to consider how to clean air conditioner exteriors safely. If the task would endanger you, leave this job for a professional AC maintenance expert. On easily accessible units, use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior casing. For stubborn grime, use a mild detergent solution.
Store the unit properly in off-season
Decide whether to remove each unit entirely or cover in place. Uninstalled units should be stored in a dry, indoor location. Units left in place should be covered to prevent dust, moisture, and insects from entering. Ensure the cover is secure, but allow some airflow to prevent condensation buildup.
When to call an AC maintenance professional
Cleaning air conditioner units and easily accessible components yourself can prolong your system’s lifespan and save you money on callouts and repairs. However, knowing how often to service an air conditioner and contacting a professional for in-depth regular maintenance is still recommended. For tasks beyond basic maintenance, here are some common questions about professional AC servicing.
How often should an AC system be serviced?
Experts recommend a comprehensive service annually. The best time is in spring before the season changes and your units become heavily used.
What are the signs an AC unit might need professional maintenance?
Signs that indicate it’s time to call a professional include:
- Units blowing warm air instead of cool air, even on a low-temperature setting.
- Unusual rattling, buzzing, or banging sounds.
- Frequent short cycling.
- Visible refrigerant leaks or water pooling.
- Rising energy bills without increased usage.
How much does professional AC maintenance cost?
Exact costs can vary significantly depending on where you live, the air conditioner unit size, whether you have a central or window AC setup, and the materials and labor required.
What’s the average cost of annual AC maintenance?
An annual AC tune-up usually costs between $70 and $250, with most homeowners paying an average of around $130.
Save on electricity plans with BKVE
Maintaining your home’s cooling and heating system is a great first step toward improving efficiency and reducing energy costs. But to truly maximize your savings, pairing regular AC maintenance with a cost-effective electricity plan can make a big difference.
At BKVE, we specialize in helping Texans cut utility costs with straightforward, gimmick-free options. Our Bluebonnet plan, for example, can save homeowners up to $800 or more per year.
Ready to start saving? Enter your zip code to discover the perfect electricity plan for your home today!
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