Have you been plagued with the headache of constantly calling your AC repairman? Is your repair bill soaring to new heights every time it breaks down during the summer heatwaves? Perhaps it’s time to take a few preventative steps and give yourself some relief.
An AC unit can last a long time if it’s maintained properly. A well-maintained AC unit consistently produces cold air, decreases the chance of damage to the equipment, and saves you money. Here are some tips to ensure your AC is operating at its best.
1. Change the Air Filter
Air filters are one of the easiest things to forget about, but they can be one of the most important. Dirty filters increase your energy consumption by forcing the AC to work harder to produce the same amount of cold air. A clean filter will also prolong the life of your AC unit since it won’t have to work as hard.
To change your air filter, turn off the power to your unit and remove the old filter. Depending on what type of filter you have, vacuum it, or shake out any particles that didn’t come loose during vacuuming.
2. Remove Dust and Debris
Dust and debris can accumulate in the fins of your AC’s condenser and clog it. Over time, this can reduce the airflow caused by your unit, causing it to wear out faster or even stop cooling altogether. Turn off the power to your unit and remove the front grille to clean these fins. Use an easy-reach tool such as a paintbrush or a broom handle to gently sweep away any debris along the surface of each fin.
3. Inspect the Refrigerant Lines
System pressure is a primary measure of the health of your AC unit in Newport News VA. You should keep it within a certain range by having your AC’s refrigerant lines looked at once a year by a professional. A refrigerant leak can cause the pressure to drop, requiring you to use more power to cool your home. If you see that there is moisture accumulating on the lines, this could indicate a leak and should be looked at as soon as possible before it leads to bigger problems down the line.
4. Buy a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is one of the most effective ways to lower your monthly cooling costs. Consider upgrading to a programmable model if you have an old mechanical thermostat. They are easy to install, save on energy use, and are often available at a reduced cost.
5. Schedule Routine Maintenance
Your AC unit needs regular maintenance. While some of these processes can be done by yourself, it’s always good to seek outside help from an HVAC professional. For example, check your AC unit’s condition once a year by scheduling an appointment with an HVAC service provider. A thorough checkup can catch problems before they become major problems. It will also reduce the cases of AC repair, saving you money and time.
Conclusion
Your AC system is a valuable part of your home that you should treat with respect. The tips listed above will help keep it running smoothly and last longer. By contacting our professionals at Newport News VA, you can get your AC unit back to normal and save money on cooling costs.