Keeping your air conditioner from encountering problems and performing at it’s peak is a worthy goal because when your air conditioner is working well, you have lower energy bills and higher comfort levels. We’ll go over some things to keep in mind.
Check Your Air Filter Regularly to Minimize Problems
Probably the easiest (and most important) thing you can do to keep your AC in good shape is to change your filters regularly.
Why is changing your air filter so important?
Changing your air filters regularly prevents dirt from building up and creating a barrier that restricts airflow to your AC. If your AC has reduced airflow, it can cause major problems.
Less cool air coming from your vents: A dirty filter is basically a thick wall of dust that blocks air from entering your AC system and can end up being a major problem if overlooked. You would end up with less air into your AC system which means less cold air that it can blow out into your home.
Frozen evaporator coil: Limited airflow into your AC system causes the cold refrigerant to drop in temperature until your evaporator coils freeze, which also limits the amount of cold air that comes out of your vents.
If your air filter ever looks dirty like the picture below, it’s definitely time to change it. But don’t wait until it’s clogged and there is a problem with air flow to take action. In fact, our suggestion is to check your air filter every 1-2 months and change it out even if there’s only a thin layer of dirt on it.
Mind Your Outdoor Unit
You’ll want to keep your outdoor unit free of debris and uncovered to keep your AC running efficiently and without problems. Here’s why: Your outdoor unit (also called the condenser) is responsible for taking all the heat from your home’s air and dumping it outside. If your outdoor unit is dirty or covered by plants or outdoor furniture, all that heat can’t escape as fast, which means your system will run longer to cool your home. And if your AC system runs longer, you’ll have higher energy bills.
Get Your Ductwork Sealed
Sealing your ductwork can significantly improve the function of your air conditioning system. Ductwork serves as the network through which cooled air is distributed throughout your home or building. Over time, gaps, leaks, and cracks can develop in the ducts, allowing conditioned air to escape into unconditioned spaces like attics or crawl spaces. By sealing these leaks, you ensure that the cool air produced by your AC unit reaches its intended destinations more efficiently and effectively. Sealed ductwork prevents energy wastage and helps maintain a consistent temperature throughout your living or working spaces. It also enhances the overall performance of your air conditioning system, allowing it to cool your surroundings faster and more consistently, leading to increased comfort and potentially lower energy bills.
What you should do: Contact a professional to seal your ducts. Duct sealing involves:
- Using mastic sealant or metal tape to cover holes and leaks
- Adding insulation around the ducts
- Refitting and sealing any poorly connected ducts
- When your ducts are sealed and don’t have any leaks, it will make your AC more energy efficient and your home more comfortable.
Don’t Ignore Needed Repairs
Though it’s tempting to ignore signs that your AC needs repair, not taking any action actually costs you more in the long run. So if you smell something funny coming out of your vents, or hear strange sounds, don’t wait to call a professional to check out your system even if you’re still getting cold air. Even if the problem seems miniscule- don’t wait. Small problems that go unfixed could lead to bigger ones, which will cost you more money and could lead to an early breakdown of your system. And the last thing you want in the middle of summer is to be completely without cool air!
Some Extra Tips To Minimize AC Problems in the Future
To minimize problems with your AC unit and ensure its optimal performance, there are several key steps you can take. First and foremost, regular maintenance is crucial. Schedule annual inspections with a professional HVAC technician who can clean and inspect your unit, check refrigerant levels, clean or replace filters, and address any potential issues before they become major problems. Additionally, make sure to clean or replace your air filters regularly, typically every one to three months, to prevent dirt and debris from clogging the system and impeding airflow.
Another important aspect is to keep the area around your AC unit clear. Remove any debris, leaves, or vegetation that may have accumulated near the outdoor unit. Clear a space of at least two feet around the unit to ensure proper airflow and allow the system to operate efficiently. Additionally, keep an eye out for any signs of trouble, such as unusual noises, leaks, or inconsistent cooling. Promptly address these issues by contacting a professional technician to diagnose and repair the problem, preventing further damage and ensuring the longevity of your AC unit. By practicing regular maintenance, keeping the surroundings clean, and addressing problems promptly, you can minimize issues and enjoy reliable and efficient cooling from your AC unit.
If you find yourself without cool air, don’t worry. Contact us and we will come out to your home and get your home comfortable again at an affordable price and with a smile. Velocity Air Conditioning is committed to our customer’s satisfaction. We will be here if you need us.
