Air conditioning is no longer a luxury. Hot summers have become more common than ever, making it almost necessary to have an air con install in every household and workplace. As vital as this fixture is, many homeowners do not understand how they work. Knowing about air conditioner components can help implement preventative air conditioning maintenance practices to keep your unit operating optimally. Here is some advice that will help prolong the life of AC.

Clean or Replace the Filter

At the beginning of each summer, remove the filter. You can wash it to clean or replace it completely. Also, make sure you check it at least once per month. If your air conditioner is placed at a high altitude or exposed to more wind, sand, and dust than usual, you should clean and change the filter more often than in other places.

Clean the Condenser Coils

The condenser coils can also get very dirty if the environment is dusty or there is foliage nearby. You can easily see the air conditioner's condenser coil and notice if there is dirt on its fins. To clean the unit, use a coil cleaner, drain the coil out and let it dry. Finally, you can clean the fins with a brush.

Clean System Fan

Your air conditioner has a fan that cools it while it's running. Take a look at the fans and see if they are dirty. If there is dust on it or the blades are misaligned, fix it before it becomes a real problem. Open the cabinet to remove the fan, then use a damp cloth to wipe it. If the blades are loose, tighten them in place. Also, if the fan has an oil port, put a few drops of non-detergent motor oil on them at the beginning of each summer. It will help the system operate at peak performance.

Check the Evaporator

Review your air conditioner evaporator from time to time. You'll find it above the furnace area, known as the focus area. If you can reach the evaporator on your own, make sure you clean the evaporator regularly. Experts recommend thoroughly cleaning your evaporator at least once a year. It will help stretch the life of your air conditioner. To clean the evaporator, remove the foil on the front of the vent, remove the shield or frame, and lift the plate. Use a rag or damp cloth to wipe away dirt accumulated on the underside of the evaporator. You can also use a bush to do this.

Observe the Freon Level

What cools your house in an air conditioner is called Freon. Any device that lacks this component will not be able to cool your home. Make sure your unit has enough freon in it. If you have a problem with your AC freon level, contact a technician to help you check.