In order to provide cool air throughout the sweltering summer months, air conditioners are essential in the lives of homeowners. However, these devices do not last indefinitely.

They will typically persist for twelve to fifteen years. If used and maintained properly, they may survive up to twenty years in unusual circumstances.

Sadly, there are a few ways people might unintentionally reduce the lifespan of their air conditioner. You can help your unit last longer and ultimately save money if you are aware of these potential blunders.

Below are the most common errors that homeowners make when using air conditioners.

Buying a Unit That Is the Incorrect Size

When homeowners buy a new AC condenser unit on their own, they run the risk of purchasing a unit that is undersized for the area it must cool. There are a number of reasons why this is an issue, including an increase in the likelihood and frequency of breakdowns.

The air in your home won’t ever be evenly cooled by an air conditioner that is too large and won’t ever be sufficiently dried out. It will only run for short periods. This is called brief cycling.

A poorly sized air conditioner will need to operate considerably longer to cool your home than a properly sized unit. This causes it to deteriorate too soon.

Allowing the Fins and Coils to Collect Grime

Condenser coils in your air conditioner absorb heat from within your home, while evaporator coils and fins allow heat to move from the air conditioner to the outside air.

Your unit’s ability to transfer heat is hampered when dirt and grime accumulate on its coils and fins, which ultimately reduces its effectiveness. You’ll pay a larger energy bill as a result.

When necessary, clean away grime from your fins and coils, especially after windy or stormy days.

Taking the Air Filter for Granted

Regardless of the filter type, ensure you clean or replace your HVAC system’s air filter per the manufacturer’s instructions. This is significant because the more dust and other debris an air filter collects over time, the longer it will be in use.

An air filter can eventually become so clogged that it prevents airflow throughout your entire system, which can result in lower efficiency, overheating, and costly component repairs if it isn’t cleaned or changed.

Lowering the Thermostat Too Much

One widespread fallacy regarding thermostats and air conditioners is that lowering your thermostat by several degrees all at once will make your AC operate more quickly and forcefully to chill your home.

This is a false claim about air conditioning; setting your thermostat lower than what you require to be comfortable might increase your energy costs. Whether it’s 65 or 75 degrees outside, your air conditioner will still work hard.

Making Your AC Do Everything Else

It is not often known, but the maximum temperature difference between inside and outside that an air conditioner can produce is 20 degrees.

For instance, your air conditioner generally won’t be able to chill your home down much beyond 85 degrees if the outside temperature is 105 degrees.

When it’s especially hot outside, use ceiling fans, avoid using the oven, and keep the curtains and blinds drawn to help your air conditioner.

Conclusion

If you want to increase the longevity of your air conditioner, there are a few important considerations. Keep it clean first and foremost, on the inside as well as the outside.

Next, make sure the area is clear and debris-free surrounding your unit. Finally, make sure to arrange routine maintenance inspections with a skilled specialist.

These straightforward suggestions will help you ensure that your air conditioner will function dependably for many years.

If you need expert assistance with your air conditioning in Berkeley, L.J. Kruse Co. is ready to be of service. We’re a family-owned and -operated plumbing, heating, and cooling company, serving residential and commercial clients. Call us right away for an appointment.