HOW TO PREP YOUR A/C FOR SUMMER

With the last two years being the hottest on record, in many parts of the world, an air conditioning system isn't just a luxury; it's a lifesaver. Taking good care of your A/C is therefore essential. Neglecting upkeep could lead to worsened indoor air quality, higher utility bills, and a shortened life span of your unit. Some repairs are best handled by a professional, but there are several maintenance tasks you can manage yourself. Here's how to set up and look after your A/C to ensure efficiency, smooth running, and a cool(er) summer.

- By Popular Mechanics Editors and Contributors

CLEAN YOUR FILTER

A typical residential central air conditioner moves something like 350 to 400 cubic feet of air per minute per ton of capacity (and residential air tonnage varies between 1.5 and 5 tons, typically). That air filter is the last line of defense to clean air that's emitted from the appliance. If the filter is dirty, it will cause the appliance to work harder than it should. Any air conditioner in a garage, shop, or industrial work environment will become dirty very quickly. In that case, the appliance or its filter may need weekly attention to keep it clean and working properly.

Most filters are washable, but keep in mind that not all last a lifetime. A/C filters should be cleaned monthly at a minimum-and that's during the cooling season. One exception is a central air conditioner, where you should replace the filter every one to three months.

Most appliances don't require tools to remove the filter you can clean it yourself in a few steps:

SLIDE IT OUT

• This step is very similar for all types of A/Cs.

• The filter from a window unit normally slides out from the side.

• A portable A/C has a slide-out air filter on the back of the appliance. Some of these units may have two filters. Several older models may have a single sheet-metal screw holding the filter's cover in place.

• Most mini-split air conditioners have a tilt-up cover. Slide the filter down and out.

• A central air conditioner has a removable panel concealing the air filter. It's particularly important with central air conditioning systems to place the filter into its chamber with the airflow arrow pointing in the correct direction. Reversing that would lead to dirty air, a quickly degraded filter, and strain on the system.