Depending on where you live, the heat in the summer can be no joke. When going about your daily routine during the hottest months of the year, homeowners need to take steps to maintain their AC units so they run efficiently and keep their homes cool. Another benefit of maintaining your AC unit during the summer months is to lessen your risk of a breakdown that could cost you thousands in repair bills. Below are some tips to help you easily maintain your AC unit so that it continues working when you need it most.
- Call In The Professionals
The most important way to maintain your AC unit is by calling in a professional annually to make sure it doesn’t need repairs and is running as it should. A simple tune-up could be all you need to ensure your system is running effectively. Allowing a professional HVAC technician to diagnose problems early on will save you money in the long run.
- Clear Drainage Holes
Located around the cabinet base, most air conditioners have drainage holes just below the evaporator fins. If you want your air conditioner to continue working efficiently, the drainage hole needs to be kept clear of debris. The hole may be too small to clean out with your fingertip, but you can use something small such as a paperclip or a piece of wire to get the job done.
- Change Filter
Most AC units have filters that need to be changed out monthly. This is the easiest self-maintenance tip and can significantly impact your HVAC system’s health. Ensuring you always have a clean filter in your system can decrease your energy consumption by 15% or more. If you have a reusable filter, take it out monthly to clean and dry fully before reinserting it.
- Remove Obstructions Around Exterior System
You cannot change the fact that your AC system will be located outside of your home, but that does not mean you should allow it to be sacrificed to harsh elements. At least twice per month, take time to inspect the unit and ensure there are no obstructions around it. Remove any debris or loose vegetation that could damage your unit or cause it not to work efficiently. Allow at least two feet around your unit to be free of standing vegetation. Having a clear area allows your unit to draw in the air it requires to control the temperatures inside your home.
- Add Smart Thermostat
New technology allows homeowners to efficiently control the temperatures in their home. A smart thermostat could be a great addition for homeowners looking to save money on energy costs. They allow homeowners to program preset temperatures for their home based on the outside temperatures and whether or not they will be home. The system will also be able to communicate with homeowners and offer tips on saving energy and decreasing monthly energy costs.
- Clean Bathroom Fans
There are multiple appliances in your home that can work alongside your AC unit to reduce monthly energy costs. Throughout the year, your bathroom fans work diligently to remove heat from your showers and baths. Keeping your fans clean will ensure your AC unit doesn’t have to work harder than it should. To keep the fans working efficiently, take off the cover and clean the fans once a year with a toothbrush and a clean cloth. Before you begin, be sure you turn the power off to protect yourself and the fan from damage.
- Clean Condenser Coils
On your outside unit, regularly use a garden hose to clean off the condenser coils on the unit. When the coils are clean, they can dissipate heat more effectively and save you money on your AC bill.
Taking time to maintain your AC unit can keep it running efficiently to reduce your energy costs and keep you cool during the hottest months of the year. Save yourself money on repairs by regularly inspecting your unit between technician visits.
