Cool Maintenance Tips for Extending the Life of Your AC

8 Jun by Will Kruse

Cool Maintenance Tips for Extending the Life of Your AC

As the temperature rises, air conditioning becomes an essential component of your home’s comfort. However, the constant use of your A/C can lead to wear and tear, increasing the chances of breakdowns and expensive repairs. Luckily, with proper maintenance and some smart habits, you can extend the life of your air conditioning unit and keep your cool for years to come. In this article, we’ll give you some practical advice on how to take care of your A/C and prolong its lifespan.

Change Your Air Filter Regularly

The air filter is one of the most important components of your air conditioning system. It’s responsible for removing dust, dirt, and other particles from the air before it enters your home. However, over time, the filter can become clogged, reducing airflow and putting extra strain on your A/C. To avoid this, make sure to change your air filter at least once every three months or more frequently if you have pets or suffer from allergies.

Clean Your Outdoor Unit

Another crucial maintenance task is cleaning your outdoor unit. Leaves, debris, and dirt can accumulate on the condenser coils, reducing the efficiency of your A/C. To clean your outdoor unit, turn off the power to your unit, remove any debris, and gently hose down the coils. Avoid using a pressure washer, as it can damage the fins. If you notice any damage to the coils, contact a professional for repair.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

One can help you save money on energy bills and reduce wear and tear on your A/C. By setting your thermostat to a higher temperature when you’re away from home or sleeping, you can reduce the workload on your A/C, extending its lifespan. Additionally, many modern thermostats can be controlled remotely, allowing you to adjust the temperature from your smartphone or computer.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance by a professional HVAC technician is essential to keep your A/C running smoothly. During a maintenance visit, a technician will inspect your unit, clean the coils and filters, check for leaks, and perform any necessary repairs. Most manufacturers recommend scheduling maintenance at least once a year, preferably in the spring before the cooling season begins.

Use Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans help circulate cool air throughout your home, reducing the workload on your A/C. By using ceiling fans in conjunction with your A/C, you can set the thermostat to a higher temperature without sacrificing comfort. Additionally, ceiling fans can be reversed in the winter to help distribute warm air.

Don’t Block Air Vents

Blocked air vents can reduce airflow and cause your A/C to work harder than necessary. Make sure that all of your home’s air vents are open and unobstructed. Avoid placing furniture or other objects in front of air vents, as this can also reduce airflow.

Replace Your A/C When Necessary

Finally, it’s essential to know when it’s time to replace your A/C. Even with the best maintenance, air conditioning units have a limited lifespan. If your A/C is more than ten years old, requires frequent repairs, or is no longer keeping your home comfortable, it may be time to replace it. A new, energy-efficient A/C can save you money on your energy bills and provide better cooling performance.

Wrapping Up

Taking care of your air conditioning unit is essential to extend its lifespan and keep your home comfortable. By changing your air filter regularly, cleaning your outdoor unit, installing a programmable thermostat, scheduling regular maintenance, using ceiling fans, not blocking air vents, and replacing your A/C when necessary, you can ensure that your A/C stays in good working order for years to come. Stay cool!

Do you need A/C repair in Berkeley? Trust L.J. Kruse Co. We are a family-owned and -operated plumbing, heating, and cooling company serving residential and commercial clients. Request service now!

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