As the hot summer season approaches, your first priority for maintaining the condition of your home this summer is to have your air conditioning (AC) tuned-up. It is what will keep you cool throughout this warm weather. Here are the basic but essential air conditioning maintenance tips to follow.
Change air filter
Change your air filter on a regular basis to keep your AC unit running at optimal capacity. Make it a habit to clean or change your filter every month. And make sure any replacements are the right size for your specific unit.
Clean the coils
To ensure the AC runs more efficiently, clean the coils at least once a year. Unplug the unit and hose off the dust and dirt on the coil. Apply water on the coils to rid out dirt, pollen, and dust.
Clear the clutter around the air vents
The HVAC system will run more efficiently when there is surplus airflow. Remove any objects that are blocking the vents or reducing the air flow.
Clear the space around the outdoor unit
The area around the outdoor unit should be clean and tidy. Get rid of weeds, plants or debris that might be building up around the area. For debris that has accumulated on the fins, remove them with a soft brush or wash off with a hose pipe.
Check the condensate drain tube for clogging
Drain tube clogging can occur when the AC is running and the moisture generated condenses inside the condensate drain tube. Make sure you clear the clogging before mold can grow on 
To clean the drain tube, a place a wet-dry vacuum over the drain opening. Wrap an old towel around where the drain and the wet-dry VAC meet to make sure it’s as air-tight as possible. Run the vacuum for a minute or so to clear the clog.
Lastly, if your air conditioner is more than 8 years old, consider hiring an HVAC expert to arrange a maintenance audit and repair.