Home AC units are more effective today, providing more comfort with less energy consumption. If your home’s AC system is five years old or older, it’s consuming 20% to 50% more power than needed.
Old or new, AC needs regular maintenance. To learn more about AC maintenance, keep reading!
1. Clean Your AC’s Condenser Coils
AC’s condenser coil is essential for cooling and needs to be kept clean for optimal efficiency. This involves using a brush to clean the surface and then wiping it down to remove moisture or dirt. Inspecting the coil regularly and repairing any damage is essential.
Use an approved coil cleaner to remove dirt from the inside of the coil. Cleaning your ACs condenser coils regularly will help ensure your AC works optimally throughout the summer.
2. Change Your Air Filter Regularly
When it comes to maintaining your AC system, don’t forget the importance of regularly changing your air filter. Opting for a high-quality 16x25x4 air filter, that fits your machine, is essential in ensuring optimal performance.
A clogged air filter can cause your AC system to lose efficiency and cause significant breakdowns. Depending on your air filter, it should be replaced every few months. In some cases, high-efficiency filters can last up to 12 months.
When replacing the filter, choose one recommended by the manufacturer. To maximize the filter’s effectiveness, use an air cleaner to reduce dust particles.
3. Check for Proper Refrigerant Levels
Over time, refrigerant levels diminish, and the AC unit must be recharged with additional refrigerant. Low refrigerant levels can cause the unit to run inefficiently, leading to higher energy costs.
Recharging with the incorrect type of coolant can damage the unit and reduce its lifespan. In addition, incorrect levels can cause the evaporator and condenser coils to freeze, leading to poor performance and a malfunctioning system.
It is essential to have your AC unit regularly maintained by an expert technician to inspect and recharge the system properly. They can also advise when to replace the old unit and install a new, energy-efficient one.
4. Detect Freon Leaks
Consider AC maintenance an essential part of regular home maintenance. Knowing how to detect freon leaks is crucial. It can help identify problems with the HVAC system.
If a freon leak is detected, homeowners should contact an emergency plumbing and HVAC service immediately. Outdated HVAC models should be checked regularly for leaks, and current models should be inspected with particular attention to the freon line for any signs of corrosion or leaks.
Regular inspections and maintenance of an HVAC system are essential for any homeowner and will help prevent any severe AC issues.
5. Schedule an AC Tune-up
Scheduling an AC tune-up is essential for most homeowners. Not only does it help keep your system running smoothly and efficiently, and it can also help catch minor AC problems before they become significant.
An annual AC tune-up should include inspecting and cleaning the indoor and outdoor coils, lubricating necessary parts, checking refrigerant charge, and replacing the air filter.
Some local energy companies even offer an annual AC tuneup to customers as part of a package, so look into that option if available. With careful maintenance, your AC system can provide you with many years of high-quality performance and comfort.
6. Assess and Optimize Airflow
Assessing and optimizing airflow is essential to ensure your air conditioning system runs efficiently. This process begins with visually inspecting the return air and supply ducts, blower and motorized dampers, and fans. You should also check for obstructions inside the ducts, like dust, debris, or anything limiting airflow.
Also, maintaining a proper temperature setting and adequately lubricating the system’s bearings will help achieve optimal performance.
7. Use a Vacuum Regularly
Using a vacuum regularly is a crucial AC maintenance tip that homeowners should be aware of when dealing with bad smells. Regular vacuuming of your filters will ensure pet dander, dirt, and other debris don’t get stuck in the system and cause unpleasant odors.
A good approach is to vacuum the filters and vents with a high-powered vacuum every month. Make sure to clean your home’s baseboards, as this also helps prevent foul odors from circulating in the air.
Clean your air filters and replace them when they become dirty and clogged. Doing so will help to keep air circulation and air quality in your home at their optimum level.
8. Have Proper Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential to a healthy, efficient HVAC system. Air should circulate freely in and out of the living space.
You can determine if ventilation is sufficient by doing a simple test. Place a lit candle near each room’s windows, doorways, and vents. The flame should flicker but remain steady. If it wavers and goes out, the space has insufficient ventilation and should be improved.
You can improve ventilation by installing exhaust and intake vents, opening windows for natural ventilation, or selecting newer and more efficient models of HVAC systems.
9. Hire a Professional
An AC specialist can assess the current condition of your unit and make recommendations on any needed repairs, including inspecting for leaks, cleaning and adjusting the fan, and replacing filters.
They can also check for proper refrigerant levels and advise homeowners of any problems or issues regarding their AC. This will help improve the unit’s efficiency and hopefully save on maintenance and repair costs.
You can ensure their AC runs as efficiently as possible by employing a professional to routinely inspect, maintain, and repair any issues that may arise. If you take the time to hire a professional accompany, you can rest assured knowing your home will stay cool and your electric bill won’t be as high.
Follow These AC Maintenance Tips Today
Proper air conditioner maintenance will extend its life, reduce costly repairs, and lower energy costs. Follow these AC maintenance tips today to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the hot summer days and save money in the long run.
Take action today and give your AC the maintenance it needs for a long life.
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