When summer heatwaves hit, the air conditioner becomes the MVP of your home, keeping you cool and comfortable.
But if you don’t want to sweat about your AC working efficiently all summer long, you’ve got to give it some TLC before temperatures start to climb. Whether you’ve got a central air conditioning system or a window unit, a little maintenance goes a long way toward extending the life of your AC. This guide will walk you through some simple DIY upkeep that helps your AC run smoothly (and save you money on energy costs).
1. Start with a Deep Clean
Dust and debris can build up inside your AC unit, reducing airflow and forcing it to work harder. A thorough cleaning will help your system run more efficiently and extend its lifespan.
For Central AC:
What You’ll Need:
• Screwdriver
• Vacuum with a brush attachment
• Garden hose
• Fin comb
How to Do It:
1. Turn off the power to your AC unit at the breaker.
2. Clean the condenser coils:
○ Remove the outer cover or grille.
○ Use a vacuum or brush to remove dirt and leaves.
○ Rinse the coils with a garden hose, taking care to avoid bending the fins.
3. Straighten bent fins with an air conditioner fin tool to improve airflow.
4. Clear debris around the unit, keeping at least two feet of clearance.
For Window AC Units:
What You’ll Need:
• Warm, soapy water
• Soft brush or cloth
• Vacuum with a brush attachment
How to Do It:
1. Remove the front grille and filter.
2. Vacuum inside to remove dust and dirt.
3. Wipe down the coils and vents with a damp cloth.
4. Ensure the drainage hole is clear so condensation doesn’t build up inside the unit.
Alternately, you can clean dirt, grease, or oil from air conditioner coils with a few quick squirts of Frost King’s Spray Air Conditioner Coil Cleaner—no rinsing required. This video shows you how to use it:
2. Change or Clean the Air Filter
Clogged air filters restrict airflow, making your AC work harder and driving up energy costs. If you’ve got a central AC, plan on replacing the filter every 1-3 months. If you have window units, wash reusable filters or replace disposable filters once a month during heavy use.
3. Check for Air Leaks
Leaks in the ductwork (for central AC) or around your window unit can cause cool air to escape, wasting energy.
For Central AC:
• Check for loose or disconnected duct sections in your basement, attic, or crawl space.
• Seal small leaks with foil and fiberglass duct wrap, which combines two insulating materials in one handy roll.
For Window AC Units:
• Inspect around the unit for gaps where hot air might sneak in.
• Plug gaps with flexible foam air conditioner weatherseal and add insulating side panels to block leaks.
4. Test the Thermostat
Your thermostat controls your AC, so make sure it’s in good working order. To test it:
• Set it to cooling mode and lower the temperature a few degrees.
• Listen for the AC to turn on—if it doesn’t, there may be an issue with the wiring or the system itself.
• Upgrade to a smart thermostat that will optimize cooling schedules, reduce energy waste, and lower utility bills while keeping your home comfortable.
5. Inspect and Clear the Drain Line on Your Window AC
A clogged drain line can cause water to back up, leading to mold and moisture problems or even AC failure. To clear it:
• Locate the drain hose, which is typically located on the bottom of outdoor units.
• Use a wet/dry vacuum or a thin wire to clear blockages.
• Pour a mixture of 1 part vinegar and1 part water down the drain to prevent mold and mildew and toss a pan tablet into the pan to control build up and stinky odors.
6. Check Refrigerant Levels on the Central AC
Low refrigerant levels can be the sign of a refrigerant leak. While refrigerant issues should only be handled by a professional, you can troubleshoot to spot a potential problem. If you notice any of these, call an HVAC technician to check the refrigerant levels:
• AC is running, but the air isn’t cool.
• Ice is forming on the refrigerant lines.
• You hear hissing sounds from the AC unit.
7. Make Sure Vents Are Clear
If you have central air, make sure furniture or curtains aren’t blocking the vents, which restricts airflow so rooms feel uncomfortable and makes your AC system work harder. Move furniture away from vents and add a heat and air deflector that directs cooled air up into your rooms. If you have rooms you don’t use, cover vents with a magnetic vent cover so you aren’t paying to cool empty rooms.
8. Shade Your Outdoor Unit
If your central AC’s outdoor unit is in direct sunlight, it has to work harder to cool your home. You may want to plant shrubs or trees nearby or install a pergola or awning over the unit to provide shade. You should also cut back any plants or overgrowth so there’s at least 2-3 feet of clearance around the unit for proper airflow.
9. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
A pre-season tune-up can reduce energy costs by up to 15% and prevent costly mid-summer breakdowns. Even if you’ve done all the DIY maintenance, a professional check-up will keep your system running at peak performance; the technician will:
• Check refrigerant levels.
• Test electrical components.
• Inspect and tighten connections.
• Clean internal components.
Ensure the system is running efficiently.
10. Reduce Strain on Your AC
A well-maintained AC will run better, but you can extend its life and cut cooling costs even more by:
• Setting your thermostat to 78°F (or higher when away).
• Using ceiling fans to circulate cool air.
• Closing blinds and curtains during peak sun hours.
• Running heat-producing appliances (like ovens and dryers) in the evening.
Sealing leaks and insulating your home to prevent heat gain.
