Our central air conditioning is part of my love-hate relationship, to be honest. I wouldn’t say I like central air conditioning when it’s hot outside. It fills my house with cool, refreshing air. But when it gets hot, it stops working. It needs extra care. It’s cheaper to keep the unit in good condition than to replace or repair it. You can visit https://porch.com/advice/improve-home-cooling-system to learn how to do the extra care for your home cooling system. Also, homeowners can do a few simple things to make sure their air conditioner is working efficiently, even if it’s not used often in the summer.
Trim Plants Around the Unit
Let’s face it; outdoor air conditioner condensers are ugly. It seems like homeowners will go to great lengths to hide them. The most popular way to hide ugly air conditioners is with plants, fencing, or trellises. Experts recommend that plants and other objects be at least three feet away from the unit to ensure adequate air circulation. Periodically removing leaves and other debris, as well as pruning trees and other plants, can increase the airflow your unit needs.
Clean the Condenser of Pollen and Other Debris
It’s easy to forget to clean the outdoor condenser when it’s not apparent. This simple task is essential and should not be overlooked. When the condenser draws in air, pollen and other contaminants can adhere to it. This can impede airflow, reduce cooling capacity and even cause overheating. It is easy to fix. 3. Take your garden hose and clean each condenser with a strong stream of water.
Buy and Install a New Filter Regularly
Airflow is the most critical aspect of central air conditioner maintenance. It is essential to change the air filter regularly. Recommended replacement intervals are usually listed on the filter package. However, it depends on how often the unit is used and how contaminated the air is. During the warmer months, it may be more appropriate to change the filter more frequently. It is as simple as removing the old filter and inserting the new one.
Use Programmable Thermostat
Air conditioners last longer when they are not in constant use. With a programmable thermostat, the temperature can be adjusted according to the day and time. This reduces the consumption of the unit. We set the temperature lower during the day and make it cooler when we sleep. Programming the desired temperature is much more efficient than turning the unit off entirely after a hard day’s work and turning it back on again.
Get Annual Professional Inspection and Cleaning
It is a good idea to have the cooling system inspected by a professional before each cooling season. The control box, heat exchangers, fan motor blades, and the compressor and piping are checked by a professional. The unit is cleaned, and the refrigerant level is checked and adjusted as necessary. Prevention is better than cure, as the saying goes. You know that preventing your central air conditioner from breaking down on the hottest days of the year is better than having to repair or replace it because you didn’t.