Your air conditioning unit is more than just a luxury; it is an important part of your home, especially during the hot summer months. But if you are like most homeowners, you probably don’t give your air conditioner much thought until it stops working, right? The truth is, with a little care and attention you can ensure that your system lasts a long time and works efficiently for years to come. Curious about how to keep your air conditioner running smoothly? Let’s figure this out.
1. Schedule Regular Maintenance
First things first: maintenance. Just like your car needs regular oil changes, your A/C needs check-ups to run at its best. A professional technician can catch potential issues before they become big (and expensive) problems.
Why is this important?
- They will clean out any buildup in the system.
- Check for any parts that might be wearing out.
- Ensure everything is running as efficiently as possible.
As industry experts Milestone Electric, A/C, & Plumbing will tell you, a well-maintained A/C won’t have to work as hard, which means it will last longer. Plus, keeping up with maintenance will help your unit run more efficiently, saving you money on your energy bills.
2. Clean or Replace Air Filters Regularly
Here’s one of the simplest tasks you can do that makes a huge difference: changing the air filter. Your A/C filter traps dust, dirt, and allergens, preventing them from entering the system and clogging up its components. But when the filter gets too dirty, the airflow is restricted, and your A/C has to work overtime.
A clean filter improves airflow, helps your system work more efficiently, and ensures that the air in your home stays fresh. It is a small task, but it can greatly extend the life of your A/C.
3. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear and Clean
Your A/C’s outdoor unit, often called the condenser, needs space to breathe. If it is surrounded by dirt, leaves, or other debris, it cannot properly release the heat it is supposed to. That means the unit works harder than it should, which can lead to premature wear and tear.
What can you do? Every few weeks, check the area around your outdoor unit and clear away any obstructions. You can also gently hose down the unit to remove any dirt or dust that’s collected on the fins. This simple step can help your system run more efficiently and last longer.
4. Use a Programmable Thermostat
If you are constantly adjusting your thermostat, your A/C is working harder than it needs to. Instead, consider investing in a programmable thermostat. These handy devices allow you to set a schedule for your A/C, so it runs less when you are not home or while you are sleeping.
By reducing the strain on your system during off-peak times, you will prevent unnecessary wear and tear. It is a small investment that pays off by extending the life of your unit and lowering your energy costs.
5. Insulate Your Home Properly
This one might surprise you, but insulation plays a huge role in how well your A/C performs. When your home isn’t properly insulated, your A/C has to work harder to keep the temperature steady. That extra effort leads to quicker wear and tear on the system.
Make sure your attic, walls, and windows are properly insulated to keep the cool air in and the hot air out. By improving your home’s insulation, you will take a load off your A/C, helping it last longer and perform better.
6. Avoid Overworking Your System
We get it – when it is hot, the temptation to crank your A/C down to 60 degrees is real. But doing that can overwork your system and shorten its lifespan. Instead, try to keep the temperature at a moderate level, around 72 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Not only will this save you money, but it will also prevent your A/C from being pushed to its limits.
If you really need to cool down a particular room, consider using fans or closing off unused rooms to make the most of your A/C efforts.
7. Seal Any Leaks in Your Ductwork
Leaky ducts can be a silent killer for your A/C system. If your ductwork has leaks or gaps, cool air escapes before it ever reaches your living space, forcing your A/C to run longer to maintain the temperature. This not only wastes energy but also puts extra strain on your system.
It is worth having a professional check your ductwork for leaks and seal any issues. By doing so, you will improve your A/C’s efficiency and extend its lifespan.
8. Consider Upgrading When Necessary
Finally, while the goal is to extend your A/C’s life, there comes a point when it is more cost-effective to upgrade. If your system is over 10-15 years old and requires frequent repairs, it might be time to think about replacing it with a newer, more energy-efficient model.
Newer systems are designed to be more efficient, which means they use less energy and save you money in the long run. Plus, upgrading can offer you the peace of mind that your A/C will be reliable for years to come.
Keep Your A/C in Top Shape
Your air conditioning unit is a significant investment, so it makes sense to take steps to extend its life. Regular maintenance, keeping your system clean, and using smart energy-saving strategies can go a long way in ensuring that your A/C stays in top shape for years to come. Take care of your unit, and it will take care of you – and your comfort – through the hottest days of summer.
