Air conditioners are excellent additions to a home, keeping the air cool, warm, and free from potential allergens. However, similar to other appliances and devices, they experience wear and tear over time. Therefore, preventive maintenance and necessary repairs should help extend your air conditioner’s lifespan. But which best practices should homeowners do? Here are some ideas.
1. Conduct Annual Service Maintenance
The first step to prolonging your air conditioner’s lifespan is to ensure it is regularly serviced. It means having a qualified technician inspect and clean critical components like the blower, coils, and condenser. The technician will also check for leaks and other potential problems.
It is best to have your air conditioner serviced in the spring if you live in a hot climate. It will ensure it is in good condition before the peak of the summer. In the fall, it is essential to have your furnace and other HVAC components serviced to ensure they are ready for the cold winter months.
2. Change Filters as Scheduled
While you should always have your air conditioner serviced by a professional, there is a maintenance task you can do on your own. The air filter should be changed every 30-60 days, making it safer for the people at home.
If you have pets or are allergic to pollen, dust, and other airborne particles, you should change the filter every month. A dirty filter will restrict airflow and cause your unit to work harder, increasing electricity consumption and reducing efficiency.
3. Clean Accessible Areas
You should frequently clean the areas around your system to ensure it’s not obstructed. Using a central air conditioner, you should clean the ductwork, vents, and registers. Cleaning the accessible areas should help the system to function better as expected.
While you can’t access the inside of your unit, there are areas you can clean yourself. The most critical areas are the coils, fins, and fan. Keep the site around the unit clean and free of debris, dust, and cobwebs.
4. Set the Perfect Temperature
Depending on where you live, you can set your AC to cool to a comfortable temperature. The temperature you select will help the system to function better. If you set the temperature too low, it will require more energy to cool your home.
Setting the temperature too low will put more strain on your system and cause your electricity bill to go up. Meanwhile, setting it too low may hinder it from performing at its full potential. The ideal temperature is around 78 degrees Fahrenheit (25.56 degrees Celsius).
5. Keep It Smelling Fresh
If your home smells stuffy, it’s likely because your AC system is dirty. A dirty AC system can be a breeding ground for mould and mildew. It can cause allergies and other respiratory problems. To keep your home smelling fresh, you can clean your AC system.
You can clean your AC system by removing the filter and washing it with soap and water. You can also use a vacuum cleaner to clean the vents and ducts. If you have a window AC unit, you can clean it by removing the front panel and wiping down the coils with a damp cloth.
Conclusion
If your AC system is not working correctly, it can be frustrating and uncomfortable. Luckily, there are some things you can do to troubleshoot and fix your AC system. A clean and well-maintained AC system is essential for keeping your home cool and comfortable during summer. By following these tips, you can ensure that your AC system runs efficiently and effectively.
Climate Experts is a Canadian-owned and operated company serving the Durham region. We offer HVAC services like HVAC repairs, furnace installation, and boiler maintenance. As the leading cooling and heating company in Pickering, we take pride in providing excellent service. Book an appointment on our website today for more information.
