Oftentimes we underestimate the importance of our air conditioning (AC) unit until it’s no longer functioning. To avoid ever having to deal with this dilemma, there are a number of things that we can do to keep our AC unit running smoothly.
1. Replace the Air Filters
The air filters on an AC unit collect allergens, dust, and debris from the air that’s circulating around it. When the filter becomes clogged, it reduces the number of allergens, dust, and debris it can take out of the air, and also makes the unit have to work harder. A clogged filter makes the air push out more forcefully decreasing the efficiency of the unit, instead placing more of a strain on the unit. In order to avoid this problem, it’s a good practice to replace your air filter every 90 days.
2. Clean Around the Unit
It’s important to always clean the areas around the AC unit as well, both indoors and outdoors. If there is an accumulation of dust on the inside next to the AC unit, it can be picked up by the filter and contribute to clogs putting a strain on your unit. Similarly, if the outside unit is surrounded by shrubbery, there is the possibility of outdoor elements such as sticks, leaves, and bugs getting stuck in the unit, forcing the unit to exert more force and utilize more energy to function properly.
3. Use a Smart Thermostat
Image via Flickr by The Unwinder
If you have the option to be in complete control of your unit, always take it! A smart thermostat utilizes smart technology which allows you to control your climate control systems through an app on your phone. This means your AC will only run when necessary to meet your specific needs.
4. Check the Exterior of Your Home
It’s a good idea to check the exterior of your home to ensure that there are no cracks in the floor, gaps in the doors, or any indication of outdoor elements somehow entering the home. If anything can enter, it also means something can exit. This means that if there’s a draft in your home, your AC unit will have to work overtime to compensate for the air being lost.
5. Enroll in a Maintenance Plan
When all else fails, go to the professionals! As homeowners, the upkeep of all of it can be absolutely overwhelming. In the long run, it’s better to remain a step ahead of the curve and receive specialized attention through a maintenance plan. This ensures that professionals regularly come in and properly assess your AC system, keeping your system running smoothly.
A properly working AC unit is something that brings joy to a lot of very hot people over the summer months, and it is truly a shame for your unit to stop working efficiently, or to stop altogether when you need it most.