Air Conditioning Preventive Maintenance Checklist: Keep Your System Running Smoothly

Having your air conditioning fail or not working properly in the middle of the sweltering summer can make your home uncomfortable. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, regular maintenance can help your air conditioning system run more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills and avoiding unexpected breakdowns. Keeping an air conditioning preventive maintenance checklist can help you stay on top of repairs and keep your system running smoothly, which is especially important for allergy sufferers and those with respiratory conditions.

3-Step Preventive Maintenance Checklist

Creating an air conditioning preventive maintenance checklist is simple and only requires a 3-step process. This checklist enables you to note the condition of your system and schedule routine maintenance on major components, helping save time and costs on emergency repairs.

1. Overall System Checklist

Turn the A/C unit on and perform a general observation of your system. Ensure the system starts up promptly and responds to the thermostat's temperature adjustments. Inspect the thermostat for proper functioning and temperature maintenance. Listen for unusual sounds and smells, and check that the vent is working properly. Lastly, turn the unit off and make sure it shuts off properly. In other words, observe that the system functions according to the manufacturer's specifications.

2. Indoor Equipment Checklist

• Replace or Clean the Air Filters: To keep your A/C running efficiently, clean the air filter periodically and change it at least every 90 days to maintain proper airflow.
• Inspect the Control Box, Connections, and Wiring: Loose or disconnected electrical connections can cause your A/C unit not to come on. Inspect all electrical connections, wiring, and the control box, tightening connections as needed.
• Observe the Condensation Drain, A/C Drain Line, and Evaporator Coil: Periodically inspect the condensation drain and drain line to ensure they are dirt-free and there is no moisture accumulation. Also, inspect the evaporator coil for dirt, as it can affect refrigerant absorption.
• Inspect the Blower and Blower Housing for Debris: Clean the blower periodically to ensure your system functions properly.
• Inspect the Fan Belt and Lubricate Moving Parts: Lubricate moving parts and change the fan belt when needed to keep your system running smoothly.
• Observe the Duct-Work for Leaks: Inspect for duct leaks in and around your system, and have any leaks properly repaired to maintain sufficient airflow.

3. Outdoor Equipment Checklist

• Clean Dirt, Leaves, and Debris from Inside and Around the Unit: Keep your outdoor unit clear of debris to help maintain proper function.
• Observe the Fan Blades, Fan Motor, Coils, and Wiring: Keep coils clean for peak efficiency. Ensure fan blades, fan motor belts, and wiring are tight to avoid potential hazards.
• Observe the Unit for Proper Refrigerant Level: Maintain proper refrigerant levels to keep your air cool and protect the environment from chemical effects.
• Observe the Tubing and Compressor for Damage: Inspect the compressor tubing for leaks to keep your system cooling efficiently.

Final Thoughts

An air conditioning preventive maintenance checklist helps save time and money by allowing you to stay on top of your system's operation and repairs. From our research, performing routine maintenance on your system at least once a year helps ensure proper functioning in time for the summer.

Share your experience with this air conditioning preventive maintenance checklist to help others keep their homes comfortable during the hot summer months.

Sources:

1. U.S. Department of Energy. (n.d.). Maintaining Your Air Conditioner. Retrieved from https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/maintaining-your-air-conditioner
2. ENERGY STAR. (n.d.). Maintenance Checklist. Retrieved from https://www.energystar.gov/products/heating_cooling/air_conditioning_room/maintenance_checklist
3. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.). Stationary Refrigeration - Prohibition on Venting Refrigerants. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/section608/stationary-refrigeration-prohibition-venting-refrigerants