You must take care of your Air Conditioner

A central air conditioning system can provide years of satisfactory cooling with relatively little maintenance. However, a seasonal start-up check and periodic maintenance is recommended.
Homeowner Checklist The amount of do-it-yourself air conditioning maintenance a homeowner can do is limited. However, there are a few steps that can help the system operate trouble-free and minimize the potential for consequential damage. Ensuring adequate airflow is perhaps the most important homeowner responsibility. Homeowners can (following manufacturer instructions):
Clean or replace the filter(s) regularly.
Keep leaves and other debris off the condensing unit.
Keep the condensing coils clean by carefully brushing and hosing them.
Keep shrubs and other plant growth that might obstruct airflow at least 18 inches away from the condenser.
Maintain insulation on ductwork in attics and other unconditioned areas.
Check the condensate drain for any sign of blockage or leakage. Water should be dripping from this drainline when the unit is running.
Keep room input and return registers clear of furniture or other obstructions.
Selecting Trained Professionals If your air conditioner needs more than the regular maintenance described here, consult a qualified air conditioning technician. A well-trained professional can provide a thorough pre-season or maintenance evaluation and servicing as needed. Insufficiently trained service technicians forsake proper diagnostic procedures and often only perform stop-gap measures to keep a unit going. Such short-sightedness can have a drastic effect on other components leading to consequential failure of the entire system. At a minimum, a technician should:
Check that the system contains the correct amount of refrigerant.
Test for refrigerant leaks.
Check for and seal duct leakage.
Clean the blower components.
Measure airflow through the evaporator coil.
Verify the correct electric control sequence.
Inspect electric terminals, clean and tighten connections.
Oil motors and check belts for tightness and wear.
Check the condensate system for backup or leakage.
Check operating temperatures and pressures.
Check the accuracy of the thermostat.

"Spring Maintenance Checklist" a checklist from Housemaster

SPRING MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST
GROUNDS
Check condition of driveways and walks.
Check window wells, dry wells and storm drains for blockage.
Check fencing conditions and gate operation.
Check retaining walls for cracks, bulges and leaning.
Check all landscaping; trim all bushes and trees.
Check all out-buildings, porches and patios.
Check for proper grading and drainage throughout property.
Check lawn sprinkler system operation.
Check all equipment in preparation of pool opening.
Check (during rainstorm) for drainage away from foundation. SIDING AND CHIMNEYS
Check all surfaces for damage or deterioration.
Check caulking at all joints.
Treat or paint worn or exposed wood components.
Check condition of masonry chimneys and vents.
Check foundation for settlement, cracks and spalling. WINDOWS AND DOORS
Check for damaged screens or broken glass.
Check weatherstripping, caulking, and window putty.
Check for frame decay or damage.
Clean and install screens. ROOFS
Check for loose, damaged or missing roofing.
Check fascia and soffit for signs of leaks/moisture build-up.
Check all flashings for fit and seals.
Check television antenna or satellite dish mounting.
Check and clean all gutters (eavestroughs) and downspouts.
Clean fungi or algae from roof surfaces. PORCH AND PATIO
Check all wooden supports and railing components.
Check flooring for wear or damage.
Apply preservative to wood decking and components.
Seal patios at foundation. INSECT INFESTATION
Check for signs of termite, ant or other insect activity.
Check for insect damage.
Arrange for treatment or repair. INTERIOR AREAS
Check attic, ceilings and walls for evidence of leaks.
Check ventilation openings for nests, or other blockage.
Check condition of all painted or finished walls and trim.
Check carpet and flooring for wear or damage.
Check condition of all stairs and railings.
Check condition and operation of all windows and doors.
Test smoke/fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. SLAB/FOUNDATION
Check for cracks or breaks in wall.
Check for evidence of water infiltration or dampness.
Check for decaying sills and window frames.
Check for signs of termite, ant or other insect activity
Check for changes in framing conditions.
Check crawlspace ventilation, insulation, and vapor retarders.
Test, clean and lubricate sump pump. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Assess power distribution for overloads issues.
Check condition of incoming service wire and supports.
Test circuit breakers and label all circuits at panel.
Test arc-fault and ground-fault circuit-interrupters (regularly).
Check circuits for over-fusing.
Check all receptacles and switches.
Check operation of vent and/or attic fans. HEATING/COOLNG SYSTEMS
Follow manufacturer instructions for HVAC systems.
Inspect and install room air conditioners.
Clean all serviceable elements of heating system.
Change or clean heating system filter (regularly).
Check venting systems for corrosion and leaks.
Clean and de-energize humidifier.
Check and lubricate attic fan. PLUMBING SYSTEM
De-winterize and check exterior faucets.
Check well and components.
Check septic tanks and systems.
Check water and waste piping for leaks.
Check hot water supply temperature.
Follow manufacturer instructions for water heater. KITCHEN/BATHROOMS
Check condition and operation of all appliances.
Clean and change range fan filters.
Check all toilet flush mechanisms.
Check and repair all leaking faucets and valves.
Caulk and grout tile at tubs and showers.
Clean aerators and showerhead.


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