Air conditioners are a necessary evil in many parts of the world. They keep us cool in the summer but also have a hefty price tag. To keep your air conditioner running efficiently, it is important to maintain it properly. Summertime is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with family and friends. However, the hot weather can also be uncomfortable and dangerous if you don't have a properly functioning air conditioner. That's why keeping your AC unit in good working order is important by following these top 5 Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips You Need to Know.
Tips You Need to Know
- Keep the area around your AC unit clean and debris-free.
- Check the air filter monthly and replace it as needed.
- Schedule annual professional maintenance for your AC unit.
- Be sure to keep the coils clean and free of dirt and dust.
- Inspect the ductwork periodically for any leaks or damage.
If your central air conditioner is not cooling your home, it may be time to clean it. First, check the airflow to see if debris is blocking the airflow. Next, check the coolant levels and make sure they are topped off.
Here are the top 10 worst mistakes people make when it comes to their air conditioners:
- Not changing the filter regularly
One of the most important maintenance tasks for an air conditioner is regularly changing the filter. A dirty filter will restrict airflow and cause the unit to work harder, increasing your energy bills and shortening the unit's lifespan. Depending on your filter type, you should change it every 1-3 months.
- Not cleaning the coils
Air conditioners are responsible for transferring heat, so if they are dirty, they will not be able to do their job properly. This will cause the unit to work harder and use more energy. You should clean the coils at least once a year, but more often if you live in a dusty area.
- Not getting annual tune-ups
Annual tune-ups are important for all HVAC systems, including air conditioners. A technician will clean the unit during a tune-up and perform any necessary repairs. This will help to keep the unit running efficiently and prevent future problems.
- Running the unit 24/7
Many people think they need to run their air conditioner 24 hours a day to keep their home cool, but this is not the case. You should only run the unit when necessary, such as during the hottest part of the day. Running the unit unnecessarily will increase your energy bills and shorten the unit's lifespan.
- Not using a programmable thermostat
If you have an air conditioner, you should also have a programmable thermostat. This will allow you to set the temperature for when you are home and away, so the unit is only running when necessary. This can save you a significant amount of money on your energy bills.
- Not sealing ducts
Ductwork is responsible for delivering cooled air from the air conditioner to the rest of your home. If there are leaks in the ductwork, this cooled air will escape and cause your air conditioner to work harder and use more energy. If you had your ductwork inspected and sealed every few years to prevent this problem.
- Not insulating your home
Another way to improve your air conditioner's efficiency is to ensure your home is properly insulated. This will help keep the cool air inside and the hot air outside, reducing your air conditioner's work. You should check the insulation in your home and add more if necessary.
- Blocking vents
Vents are responsible for delivering cooled air into your home. If you block a vent, this air will have nowhere to go and cause pressure in your ductwork to increase. Make sure vents are clear and unobstructed.
- Having a unit that is too small
Many people make the mistake of having an air conditioner that is too small for their home. This causes the unit to work harder than it should and can shorten its lifespan. Ensure you get an air conditioner that is properly sized for your home.
- Not having regular maintenance performed
One of the best ways to avoid problems with your air conditioner is to have it serviced regularly. A qualified technician can clean the unit and perform any necessary repairs. This will help to keep it running efficiently and prevent future problems.
These are just some of the common air conditioner maintenance problems. If you follow these tips, you can avoid many common problems and keep your unit running properly for many years. Be sure to have your unit serviced regularly, and make sure vents are clear and unobstructed. By following these tips, you can prolong the life of your unit and save money on your energy bills.
