Your air conditioner works hard to create a comfortable environment for your home during warmer spring and summer weather. It prevents overheating due to extreme temperatures, helps to ensure healthy airflow, and filters out dust particles and allergens. Doing your part to keep your AC unit working at its prime is highly important. That’s where an experienced AC company in Meridian can help. Although your cooling system may eventually experience normal wear and tear associated with long-term use, follow these simple tips to extend the lifespan of your unit as much as possible.
1. Regularly Clean Your Ducts and Replace Your Air Filters
A filthy air filter can put unnecessary strain on your air conditioner, forcing it to work extra hard to output clean, fresh air. At least every three months, replace your air filters. Changing your air filters regularly will prevent them from getting clogged and improve your unit’s overall efficiency. Dedicate a specific day of the month to clean your air filters. Help to keep the air clean by vacuuming your air vents and ducts, too. If necessary, wipe off the areas with a damp cloth.
Make sure the area around your AC condenser is clear of leaves, tall grass, cobwebs, and other debris. Giving your system a clutter-free perimeter of at least two feet will ensure optimal airflow.
2. Turn Up Your Thermostat
If you constantly run your air conditioner during warmer weather, it may wear out much sooner. Consider adjusting your thermostat a minimum of five degrees higher to allow your AC unit to rest more frequently. If you plan to leave your house for the day, set your thermostat to an even higher setting. You can also turn up the thermostat at night to ensure that your cooling system isn’t running nonstop without a break.
To take the guesswork out of tending to your thermostat, consider investing in a programmable model. The basic idea behind a smart thermostat is that you can set it to function at different temperatures throughout the day, even if you’re not at home. Most smart thermostat models are designed to be controlled remotely via your smartphone or other smart device. The end result could be that your air conditioning system may last longer if it’s being used less. You may also notice a decrease in your power bill each month.
3. Check for Air Leaks
At least once a year, it’s important to check for air leaks, especially if your air conditioner isn’t cooling your residence properly. Common signs of air leaks include:
- Hissing sounds coming from air conditioner
- Pooling water on floor by unit
- Ice forming on evaporator coils
- Registers not blowing cold air
A properly running air conditioning system should circulate and maintain the same amount of cool air. If you suspect that you have an air leak, addressing the issue as quickly as possible can help to prevent larger leaks from forming.
4. Upgrade Your Insulation
If you have inadequate insulation throughout your home, it may be worthwhile to add more insulation between your wall cavities and in your basement or attic crawlspace. Sufficient insulation keeps cool air inside your house and allows your cooling system to run less frequently.
5. Schedule at Least Two Tune-Ups Per Year
Although AC units aren’t particularly high maintenance, that doesn’t mean that you should neglect routine maintenance. Schedule at least two tune-ups by qualified technicians at least twice a year to keep your equipment working at its best. Experienced air conditioner service technicians can identify potential problems with your system before they become major, costly issues down the road. If a serious problem is discovered, you may be able to deal with it before the need to switch systems arises.
Consider scheduling tune-ups in the spring and late summer or early fall. Air conditioner tune-ups typically include inspecting the system, lubricating all moving parts, checking refrigerant levels, and cleaning the condenser. If necessary, your technician may replace your air filters to ensure optimal air circulation.
If you’re good to your air conditioner, it will be good to you. The friendly technicians at [company_name] in Meridian are here to provide you with tailored solutions to meet your exact air conditioner needs. Call us today to learn more about the comprehensive heating and air conditioner services we offer, including repairs, installation, and maintenance.