Annual Central Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips to Improve Efficiency
As the temperatures rise, your central air conditioner becomes your home’s most essential appliance. To ensure it runs reliably, cools effectively, and, most importantly, maintains peak efficiency throughout the hot season, a thorough annual maintenance routine is non-negotiable. Skipping this yearly check-up can lead to higher energy bills, poor performance, and premature system failure. This guide covers the essential DIY and professional annual central air conditioner maintenance tips to keep your unit running smoothly.
🏡 Outdoor Unit (Condenser) Maintenance
The outdoor unit, or condenser, is where your system releases heat. Keeping it clean and clear is vital for efficiency.
- 1. Clean the Condenser Fins: Over the year, the thin metal fins surrounding the condenser unit get clogged with dirt, dust, and grass clippings. These fins are responsible for transferring heat.
- Action: First, turn off the power to the unit at the outdoor disconnect box (a nearby switch) and the main