Maintaining Your Air Conditioner: A Guide to Cleanliness and Efficiency
An air conditioner is a vital appliance for many Australians. Through scorching summer heat waves or freezing winters, your air conditioner is responsible to maintaining your comfort all year round. However, like all appliances, it requires proper maintenance to ensure that it runs smoothly and efficiently. One aspect that many people overlook is the outdoor unit. Keeping this area clean can extend the life of your air conditioner and improve its performance.
Why Outdoor Area Cleanliness Matters
The outdoor unit of your air conditioner, also known as the condenser, plays a crucial role in heating or cooling your home. If the area around the condenser is cluttered with dirt, debris, or plants, the airflow can be restricted, which reduces the system’s efficiency and can cause overheating.
Maintaining the outdoor area not only keeps the air flowing but also prevents long-term damage and costly repairs. Here’s how you can keep the outdoor unit and surrounding area clean.
- Clear the Area Around the Outdoor Unit
Start by ensuring that the outdoor unit is free from any obstructions. Trim back bushes, grass, and other plants that may be growing too close to the unit. Aim for at least one metre of clear space for any debris around the entire unit and ensure there is clear space around the unit in line with the installation instructions. This allows proper airflow and ensures that your AC can operate without restriction.
Tip: If you live in an area with a lot of debris, such as leaves or branches, regularly clearing and cleaning these away and maintaining the clear space will minimise any excessive build up or potential damages. Additionally, maintaining regular pest control around the outdoor unit will reduce the risk of any pests damaging the outdoor unit.
- Inspect the Outdoor Unit for Damage
After cleaning the unit, take the time to visually inspect it for any signs of damage, such as bent fins, rust, or cracks. If you notice any issues, it’s best to call a professional service technician to have the unit repaired. Small problems, if left untreated, can become larger and more expensive over time.
- Check the Condensate Drain
The condensate drain is responsible for removing moisture from the air inside your home. If the drain is clogged, water can build up around the unit, leading to water damage or mould growth. Check the drain line regularly to ensure it is clear. If necessary, you can use a wet/dry vacuum to suck out any blockages from the line.
- Regularly Check and Replace the Indoor Units Air Filter
The filters inside your indoor unit play a major role in keeping the air clean and protecting the system from dust and dirt. A clogged filter reduces airflow, forcing your air conditioner to work harder, which can cause unnecessary wear and tear on the system. Regularly cleaning your filters at least once a season will help maintain the overall performance of your air conditioner throughout the year. For a quick guide on how to clean your filters click here
- Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance
While cleaning the outdoor area and performing simple tasks yourself is important, scheduling a professional maintenance check at least once a year is key to ensuring your air conditioner runs efficiently. A licensed technician can inspect the entire system, including refrigerant levels, electrical connections, and overall performance. They can also identify potential issues before they become costly problems.
Maintaining your air conditioner is essential to keeping it running efficiently and extending its lifespan. By regularly cleaning the outdoor unit and surrounding area, you can improve airflow, prevent overheating, and reduce the risk of repairs. Whether it’s clearing debris, cleaning the condenser coils, or checking for damage, simple maintenance steps can make a world of difference.
Make sure to schedule regular professional inspections and stay on top of small maintenance tasks to keep your air conditioner running cool and smoothly all year long!