In the dog days of summer, a functioning air conditioning unit makes all the difference. Continue reading for ways to keep your AC working well, even when the temperatures rise.
Pro Tip: For best practices and results, please refer to your owner’s manual.
Good practices for great air conditioning
Certain habits can help your AC unit and system last longer. Make sure these steps are a part of your rotation to help your household save on repair costs.
Air conditioner cleaning and maintenance
Cleaning your AC unit helps you rule out any easy fixes to what could be expensive concerns. Inspect your air filters monthly to remove any clogs. Check your AC unit for any critters or debris, maintaining a two-foot perimeter around it for good air flow. Make sure your unit is also resting on solid, level ground.
Pro Tip: Avoid cleaning with weed whackers or power washers, as they can be too strong and damage the unit.
Air conditioner habits to keep
Adjust your AC early enough for your home to be cool by the time you really need it. Plunging the temp down on the thermostat does not cool your house faster; it just exhausts the air conditioner and the HVAC system attached to it.
Though you may not use every room in your house during the summer, leave the registers (floor vents) slightly open in lower traffic rooms to prevent the air pressure in your HVAC system from getting too high, which can force your unit to work harder.
In addition, making sure your windows are closed, and no other items are covering or blocking your vents is your best bet for healthy air flow throughout your home.
Air conditioner overheating
Not taking the steps listed above can result in your air conditioner overheating, but catching it early enough can make these options more helpful for getting things back to normal.
- If you notice any clanging or weird noises coming from your AC/HVAC system, turn it off immediately (if it hasn’t already tripped the breaker, causing the system to shut down). Prolonged running while malfunctioning can cause more severe (and expensive) damage.
- Inspect your unit for leaks, and respond accordingly.
- Stay cool by using ceiling fans or your whole house fan until the matter is resolved. ]
- Play it safe – have your system looked at by an HVAC professional.
- Once the matter has been resolved, practice the cleaning, maintenance, and habits above.
Now that you’ve been equipped with this information, you can enjoy the rest of your summer without you or your AC unit getting too hot!