With each summer breaking new heat records, your air conditioning unit has undoubtedly become the central focus of your home’s comfort and relaxation.
Without it, life becomes miserable fast.
And let’s face it, if your AC is going to have problems, it’s always at the worst possible time. (Raise your hand if you’ve had your AC conk out on a Sunday night before a holiday.)
So, how do you keep your unit in proper working order to ensure it runs efficiently, keeps your home cool, and even saves you money on energy bills?
We’ve compiled four vital tips to maintain your AC unit during the hot summer months. If you want to stay cool, keep reading.
1. Change Filters Regularly
The first step in maintaining your AC unit is changing the filters regularly. Seems like an easy thing to do, but it’s often overlooked.
Filters play a crucial role in trapping dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, preventing them from entering your home. Over time, these filters can become clogged, reducing the efficiency of your AC unit and impairing air quality.
Changing your filters is a simple process:
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- Turn off your AC unit.
- Locate the filter (usually near the return air duct or inside the air handler unit).
- Remove the old filter and dispose of it.
- Insert the new filter, ensuring it is properly aligned.
It’s recommended that you change your filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage and whether you have pets or allergies.
Clean filters ensure optimal airflow and reduce the strain on your system, keeping it running smoothly.
2. Set Thermostat Correctly
Setting your thermostat correctly can significantly impact your AC unit’s efficiency.
During summer, aim to keep your thermostat set at 78°F when you are home and higher when you are away. For even better efficiency, consider using a programmable thermostat.
A programmable thermostat allows you to set a schedule for your AC unit. For example, you can set the temperature higher when you are at work and have it cool down just before you return home. This not only saves energy but also reduces wear and tear on your AC unit.
3. Schedule Regular Maintenance Checks
Professional maintenance checks are vital for the longevity and efficiency of your AC unit.
Regular maintenance ensures that potential problems are identified and resolved before they become major issues.
A typical maintenance check includes:
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- Inspecting and cleaning the coils.
- Checking refrigerant levels.
- Ensuring all electrical components are in good condition.
- Lubricating moving parts.
- Checking the thermostat for accuracy.
It’s best to schedule these checks annually, ideally before the start of the summer season. Regular maintenance improves efficiency and extends the lifespan of your AC unit.
4. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean
A lot of people miss this one.
Your AC’s outdoor unit, or condenser, plays a crucial role in the cooling process. Over time, it can accumulate dirt, leaves, and debris, which can obstruct airflow and reduce efficiency. Keeping the outdoor unit clean is essential for optimal performance.
Here’s how you can clean your outdoor unit:
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- Turn off the power to the unit.
- Remove any debris around the unit.
- Use a garden hose to gently wash the fins and coils, avoiding high-pressure settings that could damage them.
- Trim any nearby plants or shrubs to ensure at least two feet of clearance around the unit.
A clean outdoor unit allows for better heat exchange and improves the overall efficiency of your AC system.
Set a Schedule and Stick to It
Maintaining your AC unit during the summer is crucial for keeping your home cool and comfortable while also saving on energy bills.
By changing filters regularly, setting your thermostat correctly, scheduling regular maintenance checks, and keeping the outdoor unit clean, you can ensure your AC unit runs efficiently all summer long.
But the key is to keep up with it. Setting up calendar reminders is a great starting point, but we always recommend having your system evaluated.
Professional maintenance is key to identifying and fixing potential issues before they become costly repairs. Schedule a professional maintenance check to keep your AC unit in top shape and enjoy a worry-free summer.
Go to our website to schedule service appointments, or call us at (813) 395-5980.
