Change or wash the air filter on your central air conditioner about once a month during the cooling season. This helps prolong the life of the equipment, raise its efficiency, and improve your indoor air quality. There are two standard kinds of filters: a disposable variety, made with woven fiberglass; and a washable one, made with steel mesh. The filter slides into the ductwork or blower compartment.
For top performance, clear grass, shrubs, and fallen leaves well back from the outdoor unit. If the outdoor unit is exposed to direct sunlight, you’ll boost system performance by erecting a lean-to above it to provide shade. A lean-to will also protect the unit from rain and snow.
Have your central air conditioner professionally serviced every two years.
At the start of each cooling season, open the blower compartment and check the blower. Gently scrape the dust and grime off the blades with a screwdriver or putty knife. Lightly oil the bearings and shaft so the blower can turn freely. If the unit is belt-driven, check the belt for snugness, wear, and alignment.
Most blower motors are sealed and self-lubricating. If you have an older system, the motor may have an oil reservoir that needs to be filled at the start of each cooling season (check your owner’s manual for details.) Gently clean the coil (a loop of metal tubing) inside the blower compartment with a vacuum cleaner or a mild, degreasing detergent and an old toothbrush.
The maintenance routine on the air conditioner’s outdoor unit is similar. Clean the coils and fan blades. If the fan is belt-driven, check the belt for wear and tear.

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