Air conditioning is a wonderful invention; however, most ACs lose their cooling ability quickly. This is because many people aren’t aware that they can extend the lifespan of their air conditioning system by caring for it. You can even reduce energy costs if you learn how to maintain your air conditioner properly. Here are some handy tips on how to properly care for your AC.
Keep the Unit Free of Debris
Remove any plants, leaves, or other debris that may have accumulated on or around your unit. Make it a habit to avoid clustering.
This could, however, prove to be a more complex job than you have initially thought. For this reason, people from all around the capital of Lone Star State are hiring services specializing in air duct cleaning in Austin Texas to ensure proper cleaning. Making sure your unit isn’t getting clogged can help to reduce energy costs while improving air quality.
Check the Condenser Coil
Inspect the exterior coils of your air conditioning unit to make sure they are clean and not blocked by anything. If you find that the coils are dirty, you can use a regular garden hose to spray them down and remove any dirt or dust that has accumulated there. If you are unsure how to do this, you can get in touch with a professional AC repair service to do this for you.
Replace Your Air Filters Often
One of the easiest ways to keep your AC running smoothly is by replacing the air filters regularly. Dirty filters increase wear and tear on your system and make it more likely for parts to break down over time, which will cost more money in repairs.
Check for Leaks
You should ensure there are no leaks in the pipes leading up to and from the AC unit itself.
Using Your AC During Summer
Turn your thermostat up to about 80 degrees Fahrenheit during summer to save on energy costs. This reduces stress on the system and helps you stay cool.
Using Your AC During Fall
Get your air conditioner ready for winter during fall by changing the air filter. If it’s been a while since you changed it, it’s likely grimy and full of dust and debris. A new air filter can help prevent frozen coils during winter, too.
Using Your AC During Winter
During winter, you should turn your thermostat down so that your home’s temperature is between 60-65 degrees Fahrenheit at all times. This helps prevent frozen coils, which can cause significant damage to an HVAC system and result in expensive repairs (or replacement). It’s also wise to invest in a programmable thermostat so that your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard while you’re out of town or sleeping.
Call for Maintenance Annually
Have an HVAC professional come out at least once a year, ideally in spring, before the heat hits. Start using your AC frequently. They will check for any problems and fix them before they get worse.
Conclusion
No one wants to spend money needlessly, which is especially true for the AC. If you’re not using a maintenance plan and you notice some problems, don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to address these issues without spending a fortune. Your AC will last for years and save you money with the proper care. Whether you’re looking to lower your cooling costs or ensure your AC doesn’t break down this summer, follow these maintenance tips that will help you keep your air conditioner operating at optimal functionality.
