In Florida, our AC units are really put to the test during
the summer months with temperatures reaching well above the 90’s. The following
checklist should be performed on your HVAC at least once each year.
Turn Off Power
Before you begin work on anything electrical, always be sure
to turn off the power source first. Your shutoff box should be located outside
the unit and remember to turn off power from the breaker box as well.
Remove Debris
In order for the exterior condenser to remove warm air from
your home, it needs proper ventilation. If debris such as dirt and leaves start
to pile up, the condenser will freeze up. Trim any foliage that might be growing
around the unit in order to prevent this from happening.
Clean the Unit
Start by removing the grille cover to the unit. You can
easily clean the fins using a water hose from your yard but remember to always
spray from inside the unit so the debris will be pushed out. Never use a pressure
washer to clean your HVAC, it can damage the unit and bend the fins.
Oil the Motor
While the unit is still open, it would be wise to also oil
the motor. You’ll want to check your owner’s manual for specific
instructions on how this can be done.
Clean the Coils
Locate the evaporator and condenser coils and remove any debris
you may find. If you notice frost on your evaporator coil or condenser coil, you
may need to call a technician to help identify the problem.
Restart the Unit
After completing the above steps, reinstall the grille cover
and turn the power back on and make sure your AC is working properly.
Check the Air Filter
As a general rule, you should replace your air filter every
90 days. During the summer months, you may want to replace more frequently. The
air filter traps dirt and dust from going into the vents and once it becomes
backed up, your AC will not flow properly.
Professional Maintenance
Performing HVAC maintenance yourself can go a long way and can
save you money, but you should still have your AC unit professionally inspected
once or twice a year.
