By staying on top of these six simple tasks, you can help save money on energy bills and prolong the life of your air conditioner in the long run. To keep your air conditioner running efficiently throughout the summer, it’s important to perform regular maintenance, even when you’re not using the unit.
1. Replace Your Air Filters Often
To ensure you don’t forget to replace your air filters, it’s a good idea to check the instructions on the filter and make a note on your calendar of when it needs to be changed.
Most filters need to be replaced every 1-3 months, depending on the type and frequency of use. By replacing your air filters on time, you can ensure that your air conditioner is running efficiently and that your home is filled with fresh air.
2. Clean Your Coils
To ensure that your AC unit is running at peak efficiency, it’s important to clean the outdoor condenser coils regularly. To do this, turn off the power to the system and remove the protective grille. Using a soft brush or cloth, gently remove any dirt or debris from the coils, being careful not to damage the delicate fins.
If the coils are heavily clogged, you may need a specialized coil cleaner. Cleaning your outdoor condenser coils regularly can help your AC unit run more efficiently and save money on energy bills.
3. Trim Your Bushes & Remove Weeds
Restricted airflow can cause your HVAC system to work harder than it needs to, reducing efficiency and potentially leading to costly repairs. In addition, leaves and other plant debris that fall into the unit through the fan vent can cause damage to the condenser and compressor.
By ensuring that the area around your condenser coils is clear and unobstructed, you can help your HVAC system function at its best and prevent potential damage from debris. This simple maintenance task can help you save money on energy bills and prolong the life of your HVAC system.
4. Check For Refrigerant Leaks
One of the most common signs of a refrigerant leak is a hissing sound from the unit. You may also feel around the AC box for cool spots; refrigerant leaks often cause the metal to feel colder than the surrounding area. Finally, look for visual signs of leaks, such as wetness or frost on the lines.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to call a qualified repair service immediately. Attempting to fix a refrigerant leak on your own can be dangerous and may cause further damage to your AC unit.
By catching and fixing leaks early, you can help keep your AC running smoothly and avoid costly repairs in the future.
5. Change Your Thermostat
With a programmable thermostat, you can set specific temperature settings for different times of the day, ensuring that your HVAC system only runs when needed.
Smart thermostats take this a step further by using occupancy sensors to automatically adjust the temperature in your home based on whether or not someone is present.
Additionally, many smart thermostats can be controlled remotely via an app on your smartphone. This means that you can adjust the temperature in your home from anywhere, ensuring that you come home to a comfortable environment even if you forget to adjust the thermostat before leaving.
6. Keeping Up With The AC
By investing in regular maintenance for your AC unit, you can extend its lifespan and improve its efficiency. This includes simple tasks like replacing air filters, cleaning coils, and trimming foliage around the unit.
You can also schedule professional maintenance services, like an annual tune-up, to ensure that your system runs smoothly and catch any potential problems before they become major.
Professional Tune-Ups matter
Taking care of your air conditioning unit through regular maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your home cool and comfortable. However, your HVAC system may still experience problems or require a professional tune-up, even with proper maintenance.
LOWER YOUR AC BILLS IN LAS VEGAS
If you’re in the Las Vegas valley and need assistance with your HVAC system, the friendly technicians at Discount Air Conditioning & Heating, are here to help. Our team has the expertise and experience to diagnose and repair various issues, from minor malfunctions to major problems.
