How to Maintain Your AC Unit: At-Home Tips & Professional Care

Proper air conditioning maintenance ensures your system runs efficiently, lasts longer, and minimizes costly breakdowns. Whether you’re a homeowner tackling basic upkeep or seeking professional expertise, knowing how to care for your AC unit is vital—especially in demanding climates like Florida.

We’ve broken down this AC maintenance guide into two main sections: what you can do and what you want professional help for. 

What you might take care of yourself:

1. Replace air filters regularly

2. Clean the outdoor unit

3. Check and clear the condensate drain line

4. Inspect and seal ductwork

5. Monitor the thermostat

When to call in professional help:

1. Comprehensive inspection

2. Cleaning and calibration

3. Refrigerant check

4. System lubrication

5. Safety and performance testing

Let’s dive into the maintenance tips, beginning with routine maintenance you can take care of yourself. 

At-Home Maintenance Tips

HVAC units can be confusing, but there are simple, manageable tasks you can perform yourself that may significantly improve your system’s performance and longevity.

1. Replace air filters regularly

Air filters trap dust, pollen, and other particles, preventing them from circulating in your home. However, dirty filters restrict airflow, making your AC work harder and leading to higher energy bills or even system malfunctions. Clean filters also improve indoor air quality, which is essential for allergy sufferers or households with pets.

How Often? 

Change filters every 1–3 months based on filter type and usage. In Florida’s hot and humid climate, we often recommend monthly replacement. Your filter replacement rate will depend on your environment and AC usage.

Pro tip: 

If you have a reusable filter, clean it thoroughly with water and let it dry completely before reinserting.

2. Clean the outdoor unit

Your outdoor condenser unit is exposed to the elements, collecting dirt, leaves, and debris that can clog fins and reduce efficiency. Keeping the area around the unit clear ensures proper airflow and prevents overheating.

AC cleaning in 3 easy steps:

1. Turn off the power to the unit.

2. Gently remove debris by hand or use a garden hose with low pressure to rinse the fins from the inside out.

3. Trim vegetation and ensure at least two feet of clearance around the unit.

   
   

Can I use a pressure washer to clean the AC unit? 

No, high pressure can damage the delicate fins. Stick to a standard hose for safe cleaning.

Pro tip:

If you notice any bent or damaged fins, try to straighten them with a butter knife or straightening tool. Just make sure to use a light touch so you don’t cause any further damage to the fins or tubing behind them!

3. Check and clear the condensate drain line

The AC drain line removes moisture from your system. Over time, it can become clogged with algae, mold, or debris, causing water to back up into your home or triggering a system shutdown. In Florida, we see clogs from Zooglea all the time!

What to do:

• Locate the drain line (usually a PVC pipe near the outdoor unit).

• Pour a cup of distilled white vinegar or a commercial drain cleaner down the line monthly to prevent buildup.

• If it’s clogged, use a wet/dry vacuum to remove the blockage.

Pro tip: 

Having an AC company install a float switch can help prevent water damage by shutting off the system when the drain line backs up.

4. Inspect and seal ductwork

Leaky or poorly insulated ducts allow cool air to escape, reducing efficiency and driving up energy costs. While some duct issues require professional attention, you can handle basic inspections and sealing.

What to do:

• Check accessible ductwork for visible gaps, tears, or loose connections.

• Use HVAC foil tape or mastic sealant to fix small leaks.

• Look for signs of condensation, which may indicate poor insulation.

Is it worth sealing ducts myself? 

Minor fixes are manageable, but for extensive duct issues, professional sealing is recommended for long-term efficiency. Improper ductwork is actually one of the most common AC problems we see, leading to a host of comfort issues. Call us if you suspect you have duct problems beyond simple fixes. 

5. Monitor the thermostat

Don’t forget the brains of the operation! Your thermostat plays a critical role in maintaining comfort and efficiency. An incorrectly calibrated thermostat can lead to uneven cooling or unnecessary energy consumption.

What to do:

• Ensure the thermostat is set to “cool” and the fan is on “auto.” (Yeah, it’s simple, but you’d be surprised . . .) 

• Replace the batteries if it’s not functioning properly.

• Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for better energy management.

Pro tip: 

Utilize the programming features of your thermostat as much as possible to avoid wasting energy and extra AC operation when you don’t actually need it.

When to Call a Professional for AC Maintenance

Even with diligent at-home care, your AC unit requires professional maintenance to perform at its best. Certified HVAC technicians have the tools and expertise to identify hidden issues and optimize your system.

1. Comprehensive inspection

During a professional tune-up, technicians inspect every component of your AC system to ensure it’s functioning safely and efficiently. This includes checking for wear, corrosion, and potential failures.

Why it matters: 

Catching issues early prevents small problems from becoming costly repairs. For example, a loose electrical connection can cause motor failure if left unaddressed.

2. Cleaning and calibration

Dirty coils, clogged drains, and improperly calibrated thermostats can strain your system. A technician will clean and adjust these components for optimal performance.

What’s included:

• Cleaning evaporator and condenser coils to improve heat exchange

• Calibrating the thermostat for accurate temperature control

• Blowing out the condensate drain line to prevent water damage

3. Refrigerant check

Refrigerant is vital for cooling, but low levels or leaks can reduce efficiency and damage your compressor.

Why it’s critical: 

Only certified professionals can handle refrigerant. They’ll check levels, identify leaks, and recharge the system as needed, following strict environmental regulations.

4. System lubrication

Technicians lubricate moving parts like fan motors and bearings to reduce friction and wear, ensuring smooth operation and extending the lifespan of your equipment.

Why it matters:

Unlubricated parts can overheat, seize, or fail prematurely, leading to costly repairs and increased energy use. Regular lubrication ensures smooth operation, reduces noise, and prevents small issues from becoming major problems.

5. Safety and performance testing

Professional servicing includes testing the system’s controls, capacitors, and safety mechanisms to ensure everything operates reliably and efficiently.

What’s included:

• Verification of thermostat accuracy and calibration

• Testing electrical components like capacitors and contactors for proper function

• Inspection of safety mechanisms, such as shut-off switches, to ensure they engage correctly in emergencies

• Assessing overall system performance, including starting, running, and shutting down

AC Maintenance Questions for Floridians

For our Floridian neighbors, there are a few more things to consider. As much as we all love the Sunshine State, there are a few extra items to keep in mind to help your air conditioning unit run at peak performance.

What makes AC maintenance in Florida a unique challenge?

Florida’s climate poses specific challenges for air conditioning systems. 

Here’s what to watch for:

• Salt air corrosion: Coastal homes face accelerated corrosion of outdoor unit components. Regular cleaning and protective coatings can mitigate damage.

• High humidity: Persistent moisture encourages mold growth in ducts and drain lines. Preventive cleaning is essential.

• Year-round use: Continuous operation increases wear and tear, making biannual professional servicing critical.

Pro tip: 

Installing a UV light in your system can help combat mold and bacteria growth, improving air quality.

How often should you service your AC in Florida?

In Florida’s heat and humidity, regular maintenance is non-negotiable.

• At-home maintenance: Replace filters monthly, check drain lines monthly, and clean the outdoor unit seasonally.

• Professional maintenance: Schedule biannual checkups—spring and fall are ideal—to prepare for peak cooling seasons.

Do I really need to service my AC every single year?

Of course, the AC company is going to tell you to get professional maintenance at least once a year, right? Honestly—we recommend servicing twice a year. The Florida climate can just be so harsh, requiring near-constant AC usage. With that kind of operation, you don’t want to risk your system having a problem when you need it most. A little maintenance investment in the short term goes a long way in the long run.

Keep Cool with Seven Level Services

Maintaining your air conditioning system is crucial for comfort and efficiency. If you’re in the Cape Coral area and need help to keep your AC in tip-top shape, Seven Level Services is here to help. 

We offer exclusive maintenance programs for all our customers:

Seven Level Installation Protection Plan (S.L.I.P.P.):

• Priority scheduling for emergency calls

• Free dispatch, diagnosis, and repairs for covered systems* 

• Biannual preventive maintenance at no extra cost

• Transferable coverage if you sell your home

Seven Level Partners Program:

• Comprehensive maintenance for systems we didn’t install

• 15% discounts on repairs and exclusive warranties

• Free diagnostic services and technical support

*Restrictions apply

Seven Level Services provides concierge air conditioning services. Serving Cape Coral and beyond, our team ensures your AC runs smoothly, efficiently, and reliably all year round. Contact us today to schedule your next service and enjoy worry-free cooling!