Summer is around the corner, meaning your A/C is about to be pushed to its max. Summer maintenance is crucial for keeping your home cool and comfortable, while keeping your energy bills down. This article will explore five simple tips that can help you maintain the health and performance of your A/C. Follow these steps to ensure that your unit is working efficiently and effectively this summer.
1. Change Your Air Filter
In order for your unit to run efficiently, it needs clean air filters that can properly filter out dust, pollen, allergens, particles, and more. Over time, dust and dirt can become trapped in your air filter and effect the indoor air quality. A dirty air filter can also block air pressure flow through your A/C system, potentially causing breakdowns.
2. Adjust Your Thermostat
Most thermostats have an “AUTO” setting that enables your A/C to run non-stop without using too much energy or costing you more than you bargained for. This setting will adjust A/C levels to accommodate the indoor environment of your home, constantly adapting as needed. Even better, your A/C will not be running full-force, allowing moisture from the air to properly escape your home and evaporate. By doing this you can avoid excess moisture and high-energy expenditures.
3. Check Your Coils
On your outside A/C unit, there is a condenser coil. We suggest gently rinsing this off with the hose, preventing a dirty condenser coil from overheating and causing your unit to run less efficiently. If you are unsure about this step, contact a professional to safely address the issue.
4. Leave the A/C On When You’re Away From Home
There is a common misconception that you should turn the A/C off when you leave home in order to save energy and money. This actually can cost you more more as your turn your A/C back on, causing it to use even more energy as it tries to cool down the entire house again. In addition to this, plants, animals, and appliances may suffer in the heat when you turn the A/C off for long period of time. If you are looking to save a little, simply turn the thermostat up by 5-10 degrees. This will keep your home at a comfortable temperature and make it easier to cool down later.
5. Consider Upgrading
If your A/C unit is old and outdated, you may want to consider upgrading to a more advanced, efficient model that is designed to use less energy and save you money. If you aren’t looking to replace your A/C system, then simply look into upgrading to a programmable thermostat. They can lower energy by 5-30%. Smart thermostats can adjust to the patterns of your house to keep a constant level of comfort. They can be controlled via phone apps and are designed for convenience and comfort.