​With everyone spending a lot of time at home at the moment, perhaps we are using the opportunity to do some jobs that need doing around the house.  With the warmer months on their way, it may be a good time to give your home central air conditioning system a spring clean.  Here are a few tips:
 
No doubt, during a long winter, all kinds of dirt and debris have accumulated around the outside a/c unit.
After you have cleared away any leaves, branches and spider webs, etc. take off the cover of the unit, this will also need a clean and any accumulated debris will need removing as well.  Inside the unit there are hundreds of fins made of metal that surround coils of piping, these fins tend to bend easily.  If you notice this you can use a tool called a fin comb to straighten them out again.  Although it’s a good idea to oil the motor, you may want to take a look at the operating manual first to be sure you use the right kind of oil.
 
For an air conditioning unit to work efficiently, condensed water needs to be able to drain from it.
Check that the attached drainage lines are in good shape and have not become clogged up, and check that they are securely fixed to the unit.
 
The condition of the a/c units’ filters will greatly affect the quality of air inside the home.  Inspect all filters and give them a thorough cleaning or, if they look too bad, replace them altogether.  Dirty air filters will also put a strain on the units’ motor.
 
While it’s a good idea to have your air conditioning system serviced every year by a professional, giving it a good clean will help to maintain it in good working order.