Don’t let the summer heat get you down. Even on the most scorching of summer days, you can find refuge in your air-conditioned home.
The key to beating the summer heat is a well-maintained air conditioning unit, and now is the best time of year to ensure that your air conditioner is ready to keep you cool all summer long.
Use the following tips and tricks to make sure that your AC unit is functioning efficiently:
Inspect Your Air Conditioning Unit
Before the summer begins, it’s a good idea to have your air conditioning unit professionally inspected.
Over the cooler months, an AC system goes through long stretches of stillness, enduring the harsh weather that winter brings along with it.
A thorough inspection by an HVAC professional can catch leaks, dripping water or coolant, electrical faults or issues, dirty filters, and more.
A certified technician will check each mechanical piece of your air conditioner individually to ensure that they are in good working order.
Sometimes, all your air conditioner needs is a good cleaning.
This will improve efficiency, reduce the chances of a malfunction or breakdown, and keep your AC unit running effectively.
How Old is Your Air Conditioner?
If your air conditioner is over 10 years old, it may be time to start considering a complete replacement of the unit.
Older units are inefficient and may be causing your electricity bill to be higher than necessary.
Although there is no definite time that an air conditioner should be replaced, there are several signs of a failing system, including:
- Increasing operation costs, such as a high electricity bill
- Uneven temperatures throughout rooms within your home
- Increased humidity throughout your house
- Excessive noise emanating from the air conditioning unit
If you notice any of these symptoms, your best option is to get in contact with your local HVAC professional to diagnose the issue.
It may simply require a filter change or an entire replacement of the system itself.
How to Maintain an Efficient AC and Set the Thermostat
In order to maintain an AC that works efficiently all summer long, the most important factor is keeping it clean.
Once a month, turn off the power to the unit and head outside to clear all debris from around the unit.
Open the cover, and clean inside of the unit as well.
Replace the filter when you start to notice a buildup of dust or dirt.
Filters can be changed more often for homes with allergy sufferers, pets, or smokers.
Fuses should also be check regularly to keep the AC running efficiently.
When it comes to setting the thermostat, your location is a determining factor.
On average, the ideal temperature for a home is 78 degrees Fahrenheit.
When your AC is on its “cooling” every degree above 78 that it is set to can help you save 10% on your energy bill.
For the most efficient AC usage, use ceiling fans in combination with a higher temperature setting.
Homeowners can also invest in a programmable thermostat, which you can program to only be turned on when you are at home.