Maintenance tasks can I do myself to keep my air conditioner

Having an air conditioner at home is a great convenience, but to ensure its proper functioning and prolong its lifespan, regular maintenance is essential. The good news is that there are several tasks you can do yourself, without needing a technician. In this article, we explain how to maintain your equipment simply and effectively.

✅ 1. Clean or change the air filter
This is one of the most important and easiest tasks to perform. The air filter accumulates dust and dirt, which can reduce the system’s efficiency and affect air quality.

How to do it?

• Turn off the air conditioner.

• Remove the filter (consult your owner’s manual if you don’t know how).

• Clean it with warm water and mild soap, or replace it if it’s disposable.

• Let it dry completely before replacing it.

Recommended frequency: every 30 to 60 days.

🧼 2. Clean the vents and air vents
Dust easily accumulates on air conditioning vents. Cleaning them improves air circulation and prevents unpleasant odors.

How to do it?

• Use a damp cloth or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush.
• Clean both the interior and exterior vents.

🌀 3. Check the outdoor unit
The outdoor unit (condenser) also needs attention, especially if it’s located in a location with dust, leaves, or debris.

What to check?

• Make sure there are no objects blocking the airflow.
• Make sure the condenser fins are clean and straight (you can use a soft brush or special comb).

🌡️ 4. Check the thermostat
A properly calibrated thermostat helps maintain a comfortable temperature and prevents the system from overworking.

💧 5. Cleaning the Condensate Pan and Drain
The air conditioning system removes moisture from the air. If it doesn’t drain properly, it can cause unpleasant odors or mold.

How to do it?

• Locate the drain pan (under the indoor unit).
• Clean it with a mixture of water and vinegar.
• Check that the drain line is free of obstructions.

🛑When should you call a professional?

 Although you can do many tasks yourself, we recommend contacting a specialized technician in these situations:

• The equipment is making strange noises.
• Hot air is coming out instead of cold air.
• There are water or refrigerant leaks.
• Energy consumption is abnormally high.

“Seguí todos los pasos que recomiendan y fue más fácil de lo que imaginaba. Mi aire ahora enfría mejor y hasta siento que el ambiente está más limpio. ¡Gracias por los consejos!”

— Carlos Ramírez, usuario en Spring

💡 Conclusion
Performing these home maintenance tasks not only improves your air conditioner’s performance, but also extends its lifespan and reduces energy consumption. Spending a few minutes a month on these maintenance tasks can save you a lot of money on repairs and bills.