AC Maintenance & Tune-Ups
Why maintenance matters more in Southwest Florida
Up north, an air conditioner works for three or four months. Here it works for nine or more, in heavy humidity and salt air. Dirt on the coils makes it work harder, algae clogs the drain line, and heat wears down capacitors and contactors. Twice-a-year maintenance (spring and fall) is the most effective way to keep your system efficient and avoid surprise breakdowns.
What a tune-up typically covers
- Clear and flush the condensate drain line and check the float safety switch
- Inspect and rinse the outdoor condenser coil
- Check the indoor evaporator coil, drain pan and blower
- Test capacitors, contactors and electrical connections
- Check refrigerant pressures and temperature split
- Check thermostat operation and the air filter
- A plain-English report: what’s healthy, what’s wearing, and what can wait
Between visits: three things you can do
- Change your filter every 30 to 60 days (monthly in summer or with pets).
- Keep two feet clear around the outdoor unit. No shrubs, mulch piles or stored items.
- Treat the drain line with a cup of plain white vinegar through the cleanout every month or two.