👋 Hey, Tony here…
If you want your AC system—like that Goodman 5 Ton SEER2 unit—to last 15–20 years, regular maintenance isn’t optional.
The good news? A lot of it you can do yourself, without crawling through ductwork or calling a pro every other week.
Let’s go step-by-step—and I’ll back it all with credible sources so you know it’s not just Tony talk.
🧽 1. Change Your Air Filters Regularly
This is the #1 thing homeowners skip—and the most damaging.
Replace your filter every 1–3 months, depending on:
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Pets
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Allergies
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Dust levels
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Filter type (MERV rating)
🧾 Reference:
U.S. Department of Energy – HVAC Maintenance
The DOE recommends filter changes as a top energy-efficiency and lifespan extender.
Tony Tip: “If your filter looks like a dryer lint trap, it’s way overdue.”
🌀 2. Keep the Outdoor Condenser Clear
Make sure your outside unit:
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Has at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides
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Is free of leaves, grass, and debris
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Isn’t blocked by bushes, fencing, or mulch
Hose it off (gently!) in spring and fall.
🧾 Reference:
Trane – Outdoor AC Unit Maintenance Tips
Includes a safe guide for homeowners on how to clean the coils without damaging fins.
🧊 3. Clean the Evaporator and Drain Line
Inside your air handler or furnace, the evaporator coil pulls heat and moisture out of the air. Over time, it gets:
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Coated in dust or mold
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Clogged in the drain line with algae or sludge
✅ Flush the drain line with vinegar every 3–6 months
✅ Have the evaporator coil cleaned annually (by a tech if needed)
🧾 Reference:
Bob Vila – How to Clean an AC Drain Line
Explains DIY steps and when to call in help.
📋 4. Inspect and Test Before Each Season
In spring (cooling) and fall (heating), check:
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Thermostat calibration
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Blower motor & fan speed
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Duct insulation (no holes or sagging)
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Refrigerant line insulation
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Any visible leaks or corrosion
🧾 Reference:
ENERGY STAR – Seasonal HVAC Maintenance Checklist
A printable list of what to check, clean, and schedule seasonally.
Tony says: “Even if it ‘seems fine,’ a seasonal tune-up costs way less than a summer breakdown.”
🧯 5. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up Annually
Yes, even if you’re handy—get it checked once a year.
A certified HVAC tech will:
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Measure refrigerant pressure and top off if needed
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Clean coils and condensate lines
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Test amperage on electrical components
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Check airflow and static pressure
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Spot problems before they snowball
🧾 Reference:
HVAC.com – Why HVAC Tune-Ups Matter
Covers what pros do during annual maintenance and what it prevents.
📊 Bonus: Keep a Maintenance Log
Track when you:
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Changed filters
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Flushed the drain line
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Scheduled service
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Noticed odd noises or smells
Tony Tip: “Systems don’t break overnight—they drop hints. Keep records and catch issues early.”
🧭 Final Word
If you want your AC system to run cold for years, a little maintenance goes a long way.
And if you’re using a high-efficiency setup like the Goodman 5 Ton SEER2, taking care of it means:
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Lower bills
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Fewer breakdowns
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A longer system lifespan
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Full protection under your warranty
📩 Need a printable checklist or want to schedule annual service? Tony’s got your back—just give me a shout.
In the next topic you will read about: Energy Rebates and Tax Credits for SEER2 Systems. How to make the government help pay for your high-efficiency HVAC upgrade—with Tony’s help.
