A cool home feels incredible when the heat and humidity make life uncomfortable outdoors. Where would people be without their AC? Air conditioning is something most homeowners consider worthwhile, and the numbers tell the story. A survey by the U.S. Energy Information Administration shows that 88% of American households have AC. The data also indicates that 66% of U.S. households use central AC or a central heat pump as their main AC equipment. Air conditioning feels amazing, but whatever unit or system you rely on needs regular maintenance to keep everything “firing on all cylinders.” Here are three tips to ensure this happens.
1. Replace the Filters and Remove the Dirt
Air conditioning works best when the system is clean. Disposable filters should be changed every month to three months. Even ductless AC systems require filter cleaning.
Also, it’s recommended to clean debris around your air conditioner and to remove dirt from the coils. You must eliminate leaves, dirt, and any overgrown bushes nearby that can impede the airflow of your outdoor unit.
The outdoor condensing unit of your air conditioner can get clogged with excessive pollen, grime, and other debris. HVAC technicians advise using a hose to clean it once every season.
2. Check the AC for Signs of Moisture
Here’s another simple maintenance rule for air conditioners: Inspect your AC model indoors and outdoors for any signs of moisture, such as water stains or puddles. The presence of oil residue can often indicate a refrigerant leak. Also, if you notice warm air blowing from the vents while your AC is running, it may indicate a refrigerant leak has occurred. For a water leak, HVAC experts suggest checking the condensate drain line for blockages.
3. Set the Air Conditioner’s Thermostat
That sounds simple enough. When the AC is regulated to the proper temperature settings, this enables the components to maintain a consistent indoor climate without overworking. This way, you can extend the unit’s lifespan and reduce the need for repairs.
A thermostat setting that’s too high or too low can cause your air conditioner to work harder than necessary. More efficient energy use can be achieved just by setting the thermostat. Some homeowners prefer a smart thermostat that automatically adjusts the temperature based on their schedules and preferences.
Your air conditioning system is a valuable investment, and you want to keep it functioning right for years to come. That’s why basic AC upkeep matters, and if the unit is having issues, it’s time to call the HVAC professionals. They offer quick and precise solutions. Contact Cool Cat Heating & Cooling for AC maintenance and repair services.