Homeowners can dramatically extend the life of their air conditioning systems with a few simple procedures.

  1. If you have a gas-fired furnace with a pilot, turn off the furnace during the cooling season. Your furnace will last longer and stay cleaner. For your next furnace demand electronic ignition.
  2. Use a 40% pleated filter in your return air to keep the dirt from collecting on the cooling coil. This will result in longer compressor life; lower operating costs, and less dirt to breathe.
  3. Have an access door installed so the evaporator-cooling coil can be easily cleaned and inspected by the person servicing the unit.
  4. Turn off the system when mowing the lawn. It reduces the trash that will be sucked into the condenser. Keep the weed eater away from the condenser coils.
  5. When you purchase a new condenser, look at the design of the unit. Is it easy to clean the condenser coils? If not, look at other brands.
  6. If your system is not cooling properly, don’t wait! Shut off the system and call for service. The longer you wait, the more likely damage will increase.
  7. If you do have an early system component failure and the reason is not determined, it will happen again. Ask questions and find out what has happened.
  8. Have an access “tee” installed in your drain line and add bleach to it yourself. This can save a service call and potential damage to your home.
  9. Add some water to your overflow pan and see where it goes. If it doesn’t drain out properly now, where will it go when you really need it?
  10. Even if you can take the heat, be careful in the attic. It is cheaper to hire some help than risk falling or overheating in the attic.