As a homeowner, your AC system plays an essential role in providing you with a comfortable living environment. However, it requires consistent care and maintenance to extend its lifespan and ensure peak performance.
In this article, we’ll explore proven ways to extend the life of your AC system so that you avoid costly repairs and enjoy lower energy bills.
Need maintenance for your AC system? Take a look at Smart Air if you reside in the Oklahoma City area.
Table of Contents
1. Regular maintenance
One of the most critical aspects of extending the life of your AC system is performing regular maintenance. Scheduling routine check-ups with a professional HVAC technician can significantly improve your air conditioner’s performance and overall efficiency, ultimately prolonging its lifespan.
In addition to professional tune-ups, homeowners should make it a habit to monitor their AC systems on a monthly basis. Simple tasks like removing debris around the outdoor unit or listening for any unusual noises coming from the system can help you identify potential issues early on before they escalate into costly repairs.
2. Change air filters
Regularly changing your air filters is one of the easiest and most effective ways to extend the life of your AC system. Dirty filters can restrict airflow, causing your system to work harder than necessary and leading to higher energy bills.
They also reduce indoor air quality by allowing dust, pollen, and other allergens to circulate in your home. We recommend checking your air filter every month and replacing it at least every three months (or more frequently if you have pets or allergies).
One helpful tip is to stock up on replacement filters so that you always have them on hand when it’s time for a change. You can find a variety of types and sizes at local hardware stores or online retailers.
3. Upgrade to a programmable thermostat
Upgrading to a programmable thermostat is an excellent way to extend the life of your AC system and save money on energy bills. These thermostats allow you to set different temperatures for different times of the day, which means you can adjust your HVAC system’s workload based on when you’re home and when you’re away.
For example, during the day when no one is home, you can program the thermostat to keep your house at a higher temperature.
Not only does this method save energy by reducing unnecessary usage, but it also keeps your AC system running efficiently by minimizing wear and tear from overuse.
4. Clean and maintain condenser coils
Condenser coils are an essential part of your AC system, and they play a crucial role in keeping your living space cool. Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on these coils leading to decreased efficiency and even failure of the system.
To clean the condenser coils, you’ll need to switch off power to the unit. Then, using specialized cleaning solutions or water pressure from a hose nozzle with moderate force, flush out debris from between gaps in the fins of the coil surface area.
It’s also important to check for damage, such as bent fins that reduce cooling performance or restrict air flow over time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, taking care of your AC system is essential to extend its lifespan and save money on energy bills. By following the six tips listed above, you can improve air quality, avoid costly repairs, and optimize airflow for better cooling efficiency.
Regular maintenance will keep your HVAC system running smoothly. Upgrading to a programmable thermostat and managing indoor humidity levels are also smart ways to reduce energy consumption while ensuring maximum comfort in your home.
