Top 5 Ways to Maintain Your Heating and Cooling System

Here are a few things you can do to help ensure the best operation and comfort from your heating and cooling system.
Warning! Always disconnect the power before removing access panels.
There might be multiple power connections.
Be cautious when handling parts or reaching into units.

Check your filter once a month.
Dirty filters will strain on your furnace, air conditioner or heat pump.
Your filter should be replaced or cleaned, if you have the reusable type, when necessary.
If you do have a reusable filter, dry thoroughly before re-installing it.
Clean your prefilter and collection cells of an electronic air cleaner every 4 to 6 months.
Dust your indoor coil with a vacuum cleaner and soft-brush attachment.
Be sure to remove any dust from the top and underside of the coil.
Check first to make sure the coil is dry.
If you can't get the coil clean this way, call a professional for service.
Remove debris from arround your outdoor condensing unit.
This way it should only require minimal care to operate properly.
Check the base pan under the unit occasionally to help the unit drain correctly.
To clean a dirty coil, use a brush or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment for surface grime.
To clean dirt that is deep in the coil, contact a professional for service.
Coastal environments have their own challenges for outdoor condensing units, so your unit will require special care.
Ocean spray and coastal winds carry salt, which is corrosive to most metals.
Though newer equipment is made out of galvanized metal and protected by specially formulated paint, you can increase the life to your unit by washing all exposed surfaces and the coil every three months.