
An air conditioner (AC) is one of the most important appliances in your home, especially during the hot summer months. When it’s functioning properly, it keeps your home cool, comfortable, and safe from extreme heat. However, if not maintained properly, your AC can struggle to keep up, leading to costly repairs, higher energy bills, and a decrease in performance. To ensure your AC runs smoothly all year long, it’s important to take proactive steps to keep it in top condition.
In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know to keep your air conditioner running smoothly, from regular maintenance to troubleshooting common issues.
1. Change the Air Filter Regularly
One of the most important tasks to keep your AC in peak condition is to change the air filter regularly. Air filters are designed to catch dust, dirt, and debris before it enters your air conditioning system. When the filter becomes clogged, it restricts airflow, which can reduce your system’s efficiency and strain the motor.
How often should you change the filter?
- Every 1-3 months is a good rule of thumb, especially if you have pets or live in a dusty environment.
- If your home is relatively clean and you don’t use the AC too much, you can extend the interval to 6 months.
A clean air filter not only helps your AC run more efficiently, but it also improves indoor air quality by reducing allergens and pollutants.
2. Clean the Coils
Over time, dirt and dust can accumulate on both the evaporator and condenser coils of your air conditioning unit. This buildup can cause the coils to lose their ability to absorb and expel heat, respectively. When this happens, your AC will have to work harder to cool your home, which can lead to higher energy bills and even system failure.
How to clean the coils:
- Turn off the power to the unit before cleaning.
- Use a soft brush or vacuum with a coil-cleaning attachment to gently remove dust and debris from the coils.
- Use a coil cleaner: After brushing off the dust, you can use a coil cleaner that is designed for air conditioners to remove any remaining buildup.
It’s a good idea to clean the coils at least once a year. If your AC is in an area prone to dirt or dust, you may need to clean them more frequently.
3. Ensure Proper Insulation
Proper insulation is critical for an efficient AC system. The refrigerant lines running to your air conditioner should be properly insulated to ensure that the refrigerant stays cool as it moves through the system. If the insulation is damaged or missing, the AC system can lose efficiency, leading to higher energy costs and more strain on the system.
What you can do:
- Inspect the insulation around the refrigerant lines and replace any damaged sections.
- Check the ducts for air leaks. If you find any, seal them with duct tape or a similar product to prevent air from escaping.
Well-insulated lines will help your AC perform better while lowering your utility costs.
4. Keep the Area Around Your AC Unit Clean
Another important step in maintaining your AC system is to keep the area around the outdoor unit clean and free from obstructions. If the condenser unit is surrounded by leaves, dirt, or debris, it can have trouble expelling heat, leading to inefficient cooling and a greater risk of overheating.
How to maintain the outdoor unit:
- Clear away debris: Remove any leaves, branches, or dirt from around the outdoor unit. Aim to keep a 2-foot radius around the unit clear for proper airflow.
- Trim plants: Trim back shrubs or trees that could be blocking airflow to the condenser.
- Check for standing water: Water buildup around the unit can affect performance, so make sure the area is dry and that drainage pathways are clear.
By keeping the space around your outdoor unit clean, you’ll improve your air conditioner’s performance and longevity.
5. Check the Thermostat Settings
The thermostat controls the temperature and efficiency of your air conditioning system. If it’s not set correctly or is malfunctioning, your AC might not be running optimally.
How to maintain your thermostat:
- Calibrate your thermostat: Ensure that it’s reading the temperature accurately. You can check the thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer to compare readings.
- Upgrade to a programmable thermostat: A smart or programmable thermostat can help you manage your AC more efficiently. Set the temperature to rise when you’re away from home and cool down before you return.
- Avoid placing the thermostat in direct sunlight: Sunlight can cause false readings, making your air conditioner run longer than needed. Place it in a shaded spot away from heat sources.
A well-calibrated thermostat will ensure your AC runs only when necessary, keeping your home cool while minimizing energy waste.

6. Schedule Regular Professional Maintenance
While there’s plenty you can do on your own to keep your AC running smoothly, nothing beats professional maintenance. A certified HVAC technician can perform a thorough inspection of your system, identifying and addressing potential problems before they turn into costly repairs.
What professional maintenance includes:
- Checking refrigerant levels
- Inspecting and tightening electrical components
- Cleaning and lubricating moving parts
- Inspecting the system for leaks or damage
- Testing the system for overall performance
It’s recommended to schedule professional maintenance once a year, ideally before the start of the cooling season. Regular servicing will not only extend the life of your AC but also ensure it runs at peak efficiency.
7. Monitor Your Energy Bills
A sudden spike in your energy bill can indicate an issue with your air conditioner. If your AC is using more power than usual, it could be a sign that it’s struggling to cool your home effectively. Common reasons for increased energy usage include:
- Dirty air filters or coils
- Low refrigerant levels
- Poor insulation or leaky ducts
- A malfunctioning thermostat
If you notice your bills climbing, it’s worth investigating the issue and calling in a professional if needed. Sometimes, a minor repair or maintenance task can help restore your AC’s efficiency and bring down costs.
8. Replace Your AC When Necessary
Even with proper maintenance, all air conditioners have a lifespan. Most air conditioners last between 10 and 15 years, but their efficiency will decrease as they age. If your system is getting older and requires frequent repairs, it may be time to invest in a new unit.
Signs you may need to replace your AC:
- Frequent breakdowns or repairs
- Inefficient cooling
- Increasing energy bills
- The unit is more than 10-15 years old
When replacing your AC, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model that will save you money in the long run. Regular aircon servicing lavender ensures that your new system continues to operate efficiently, preventing breakdowns and optimizing performance. By maintaining your air conditioning unit, you’ll not only improve its lifespan but also keep energy costs down over time.
Conclusion
Keeping your air conditioner running smoothly all year long doesn’t require a lot of time or effort, but it does require consistency. Regular maintenance, cleaning, and smart usage can go a long way in prolonging the life of your system and preventing costly breakdowns. By following these tips, you can enjoy a cool, comfortable home and avoid the stress of a malfunctioning air conditioner when you need it most.