Top 10 Tips to Prevent Air Conditioning Problems
There’s almost nothing worse than dealing with a broken air conditioner during a heatwave. The initial signs of an impending breakdown may be understated—unusual noises, odd smells or diminished cooling. Before you know it, these small issues grow into full-blown system failures. However, with a bit of forethought and regular maintenance, you can keep your air conditioner running properly. Here are 10 recommendations to protect against AC trouble this summer.
1. Replace the Air Filter Regularly
One simple yet effective tip is to check the air filter each month and replace it when it appears dirty, going no more than 90 days between filter changes. A clean filter facilitates smooth airflow, improves indoor air quality and enhances air conditioning efficiency. An overused or dirty filter, on the other hand, makes your AC work harder than it should, which could cause breakdowns.
2. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean and Unobstructed
The exterior AC unit needs enough space to intake and exhaust air successfully. Regularly check the area around the unit, removing loose debris like leaves, grass clippings or sticks. Then, trim back all the vegetation growing within 12 inches of the unit. These strategies can prevent AC problems and promote optimal performance.
3. Check the Condensate Drain Pan
Air conditioning doesn’t only cool the air—it also extracts excess humidity. This moisture drips into the condensate drain pan and then flows down the drain line. These two things can get obstructed over time, causing leaks and increasing the likelihood of water damage. Regularly inspect the drain pan and line for blockages to avert these AC issues.
4. Listen for Strange Noises or Smells
Your air conditioner mostly functions with a soft, constant hum. If you hear unusual grinding, screeching or hissing, you can bet something’s amiss. Similarly, if you sniff out unusual electrical burning smells or musty odors, it’s time to check on your AC. These issues can be a sign of several different AC problems, including motor damage or mold growth, and should be addressed promptly.
5. Keep Your Vents Open
While closing vents in unused rooms may seem sensible, doing so forms pressure imbalances and reduces system efficiency. To prevent AC problems, keep at least 80 percent of your return and supply vents open and clear of furniture, rugs and curtains.
6. Install a Programmable Thermostat
Programmable thermostats are intuitive devices that boost your AC’s operation and minimize problems. Once you program your temperature schedule, you can sit back and chill out while your thermostat does the rest. Smart models are even more effective, allowing you to check and adjust your home’s temperature remotely or even manage the settings with your voice.
7. Check Your Attic Insulation
Air conditioning efficiency doesn’t simply involve the unit’s mechanics. The right amount of insulation is also essential for maintaining a comfortable interior, preventing warm air from seeping in and cold air escaping. The attic is the quickest place to add insulation to an existing home, so look inside the hatch to see if the floor is covered with a thick, even layer of insulation. If not, you may have to add more insulation to enjoy noticeable energy savings and prevent overloading your AC.
8. Avoid Heat-Generating Activities in the Afternoon
Using the oven, stove or clothes dryer when the sun is at its peak significantly increases your AC unit’s workload. When possible, cook and do laundry in the evening or early morning to minimize unnecessary AC activity. When planning dinner in the summer, think about reheating leftovers in the microwave, eating uncooked meals like sandwiches and salads, or barbecuing outside on the backyard grill.
9. Run a Ceiling Fan
While a ceiling fan can’t replace an AC unit, it can certainly accentuate it. Ceiling fans generate a wind chill effect that makes a room feel about 4 degrees cooler. This extra comfort lets you set your thermostat to a higher temperature, limiting the workload on your AC system and potentially eliminating AC problems. Just remember to power down the fan when you exit the room. That’s because the wind chill effect cools people, but it doesn’t bring down the temperature in the room.
10. Schedule Annual AC Maintenance
Regular AC tune-ups are a proactive measure aimed at locating and fixing little issues before they turn into serious problems. A yearly check by a knowledgeable HVAC technician prepares your air conditioner for summer, saving you from inconvenient breakdowns and expensive repairs by making certain your AC is working optimally.
Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for Air Conditioner Service in Fort Lauderdale
Now that you know the top tips to prevent air conditioning problems, you can follow these steps to keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long. Whether you need to schedule a routine tune-up or emergency AC repair, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning has you covered. We are dedicated to providing thorough and efficient maintenance, repairs and installations to meet all your cooling needs. For reliable AC services in your area, call 954-736-4314 today to schedule an appointment with the Experts at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning.
