How to Keep Your AC Unit Running All Summer Long
It can be easy to forget about your air conditioner when not in use, but when the weather warms up, you’ll want it to be up and running . There are some things you can do yourself to make sure your air conditioner is running as efficiently and effectively as possible all summer long.
Remove the brush next to the AC unit
One really important thing to remember is that if you have an air conditioning system, it’s important to keep the area around the condenser clean. If it was a rainy spring, you may need to cut back bushes or clean and pull out weeds that have grown around the machine. You should leave about 24 inches of free space around the device to allow proper airflow.
Replace or clean the AC filter
Next, you probably need to change the filter. If your air conditioner has a disposable filter, it should be changed at the beginning of the season and then once a month during the summer. In addition to increasing wear on the fan in your A/C system, if the filter is clogged, it can also affect your air quality. A clogged filter will also increase your energy bill because it will be harder for the system to move air through it. If you have a reusable filter, you should clean and dry it at least once a month for the same reasons.
Shade and insulate windows
One maintenance task that many people overlook is making sure their windows are shaded during the day to keep the inside as cool as possible. Using curtains to reduce heat will lower your energy bills and also extend the life of your air conditioner. Check the insulation around your windows and make sure all AC window units are properly installed and sealed. If you have gaps around the block in awkward places that are difficult to fill, use a removable caulk or foam tape to seal it.
Improve airflow
To improve airflow around your home and increase the efficiency of your air conditioner, keep interior doors open where possible and install ceiling fans to help move cool air around your home. The easier it is for air to circulate, the better your air conditioner will perform. To get the most out of your ceiling fan, make sure it’s pulling cold air up from the floor rather than pushing hot air down towards the ground.
Appoint a professional
Once you’ve taken control of all DIY repairs, it’s a good idea to set up an annual maintenance schedule with a local company to make sure everything runs smoothly. Annual maintenance may cover minor repairs, as well as everything related to opening the device. If you decide to do it yourself, first make sure that the device is powered off from the source, as the moving parts of the air conditioner can cause serious injury.