As your air conditioner runs, it can accumulate dirt in multiple areas. That buildup reduces your AC’s efficiency and effectiveness, so a thorough spring-cleaning for your AC is necessary. As you do it, you need to know which areas to pay careful attention to. Here’s what to inspect as you spring-clean your air conditioner.

Check Your AC’s Air Filter

Every air conditioner has an air filter designed to keep as much dust and dirt out of its inner workings as possible. Most ducted ACs have disposable air filters that need replacing every 30 to 90 days. Make sure you have a clean filter at the start of the cooling season.

If you have a ductless mini-split, each indoor air handler should have a washable filter. Remove the filter on each air handler, and then clean all the filters according to their manufacturer’s instructions. When the filters are dry, replace them in each air handler. Make it a habit to clean your mini-split air filters every two weeks while your system is in use.

Inspect Your Air Conditioner’s Blower Motor

In most ducted ACs, the blower motor is directly above or next to the air filter. While disposable air filters capture most airborne dust and dirt, they’re not perfect. Any dirt that bypasses the filter will accumulate on the AC’s blower motor.

While you’re replacing the filter, inspect the blower motor for any dirt buildup. If there’s more than a tiny amount, you’ll need to have a professional HVAC technician clean the blower. Don’t try to clean it yourself, or you may damage it, injure yourself, or both.

Clean Around Your AC’s Outdoor Unit

Your AC relies on its outdoor condenser unit to expel heat that has accumulated inside your home to the outdoors. To do that efficiently, this component uses a large fan to pull fresh air through a large heat exchanger. The outdoor unit needs about 2 feet of clear space on all sides to guarantee sufficient airflow. Every spring, it’s a good idea to clean the area around your condenser to remove leaves, twigs and debris. Doing so will improve your AC’s efficiency and ensure it cools your home effectively.

Inspect the Coil in Your AC’s Condenser Unit

Finally, you should check the opening at the top of your AC’s outdoor unit. Look for any dirt or buildup on the fins of the unit’s heat exchanger. Then do the same while looking through the sides of the outdoor unit. Heavy dirt buildup in the fins of the coil will hamper heat exchange. If the fins appear dirty, it’s a wise idea to schedule a maintenance visit to have them cleaned.

By inspecting your AC’s air filter, blower and outdoor unit, you can head off problems during your spring-cleaning. That way, when summer arrives, your cooling system will be ready to handle the heat. If you have concerns or require AC installation services, contact E Dennis AC in Newnan, GA.