Keeping your air conditioning unit in good working condition is one of the best things you can do to extend its longevity. Fortunately, there are some simple tips that you can follow that’ll help keep your air conditioning unit running well and help you save money on cooling costs.
Here are some tips to maintain your air conditioning unit so it can continue to deliver cool or hot air in the room:
1. Make Sure That The External Part Is Working Properly
One of the most important things to ensure that the HVAC system is going to work properly is when the external part is secured and protected. This is because the outside of the air conditioning unit is exposed to various elements outside. Hence, make sure that the external’s cover is kept clean to prevent dirt and dust from being blown into the indoor unit.
2. Hire The Professionals
When you start to notice that the system doesn’t cool as it should or that the condenser coils are smoking, it’s time for air conditioner repair. The air conditioning unit will need to be shut down and taken apart so that it can be cleaned, checked for leaks, and any other problems.
If you’re not comfortable taking apart the air conditioning unit yourself, you may want to hire a professional. Make sure to do your research before hiring anyone to come and take care of your AC unit. Having a professional will ensure that the job is done right and that your air conditioning system is running at its optimal performance level.
3. Stick With The Recommended Settings
Another tip to follow is to make sure that you keep up with the recommended settings. The AC settings are very important and if you don’t make sure that they’re set to the correct values, you could end up having a hot or cold day.
Turn down the air conditioner’s thermostat to the normal temperature when it’s cold outside. If you find that the air conditioner isn’t heating up your home to your desired temperature, simply open the window and turn on a fan to bring the temperature down inside.
In addition, if the air is getting too hot in the room, simply open a window. Turn the air conditioner off as soon as you’re done finishing your work for the day. Doing so won’t only allow you to save money on cooling costs, but you’ll also find that your air conditioner will work better than ever.
If you live in an area where there’s extreme weather, you may need to set your air conditioner to a higher setting. Some air condition can be set up so it only turns on when the temperature reaches a certain level. You should make sure that the room where your air conditioner is located has a window nearby so you can monitor the temperature inside the room. Lastly, try to find a spot with a low humidity level where you can avoid having problems with your AC.
4. Change The Filters
Another tip to keep your air conditioning running properly is to change the filters on your air conditioning once a month. Air filters prevent dust and other pollutants from entering your air conditioning system, which makes it much cooler and helps keep your air conditioning working at its optimal temperature.
Unfortunately, many people don’t change their air filters, hence they’re going to have too much dust and pollutants in their air conditioning. This is why it’s important to regularly change your air filters.
5. Keep It Clean
Keeping your air conditioner clean is a key component of any air conditioner maintenance. Dirty or clogged filters can prevent the unit’s normal airflow from being able to circulate the coolant and cool, humid air inside the house. A dirty filter on your air conditioner will also decrease the overall air quality inside your house, creating more dirt and dust to circulate through the coolant and air in the house.
Clogged filters will also lower the efficiency of your air conditioner by lowering the temperatures of the coolant that’s used. As temperatures rise, the efficiency of your air conditioner will decrease and you may find that it takes longer to cool the house than it should.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing more frustrating than waking up in the middle of the night because the room is too hot and your AC is not working. Replacing your air conditioner can be very costly, so you have to do your best to ensure that your unit will last for a couple of years by keeping it well-maintained. Follow these helpful tips to protect your investment and you can also rest assured that you and your family stay comfortable.
About Author
Rodolfo Evans is a an HVAC field supervisor. He has years of experience in HVAC repairs and now supervises technicians deployed in residential and commercial establishments. During his free time, Rodolfo plays billiards and engage in woodworking.
For more tips on caring for your HVAC units, check out these blogs:
Top Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Immediate Service
Should You Repair or Replace Your Air Conditioning Unit? The Practical Homeowner’s Guide