Things You'll Need:
- Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment
- Air conditioner air filter
- Garden hose
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Step 1
Remove the old air filter for the intake vent on the AC system. With this filter removed, you should have access to the interior coil. Vacuum off the coil using the brush attachment of the vacuum cleaner. This will remove any built-up dust on the coils. Replace the filter with a new one on a monthly basis during the cooling season.
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Step 2
Attach the garden hose to the outdoor hose spigot. Hose down the exterior air conditioning coil. Clean the coil of any dirt or debris that might be laying against the outdoor unit. Keep all brush and shrubs at least 3 feet away from the coil surface to improve airflow.
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Step 3
Keep all exterior doors and windows closed when the air conditioning system is in operation. Close off rooms that are not occupied when cooling is required. Operate the AC unit only when additional ventilation is not necessary. In other words, use the AC system when outdoor humidity and temperatures are most uncomfortable.
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Step 4
Minimize interior humidity by not operating showers, dishwashers or other hot water appliances during the heat of the day. Wait until the cooler evening hours to use these heat- and humidity-producing devices.
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Step 5
Make an appointment with a service technician every two to three years to inspect and tune the air conditioning system. Inspect the ducting system for any leaks and have bad ducting repaired at this time.
