Do’s:
- Read the manual – it will help you understand your AC unit and how to properly maintain it. When you take the time to understand the inner workings of your AC unit, you are less likely to make mistakes that could cause further damage. In addition, you may be able to find troubleshooting tips that can help you fix the problem without having to call in a professional.
- Keep an eye on your energy bills – Look for any sudden spikes that could indicate a problem with your AC unit. If you’ve ever been jolted awake by a loud noise in the middle of the night, you know how unsettling it can be. Sudden spikes in noise level can be a sign that something is wrong with your AC unit, and it’s important to take notice. These spikes could indicate a problem with the compressor, fan, or ductwork
- Call an HVAC technician – If you’re not comfortable performing repairs yourself. They have the training and experience to quickly diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs. Plus, they can also perform preventive maintenance that will help prolong the life of your air conditioner.
- Research before hiring an AC repair technician – One of the best ways to research a potential AC repair company is to ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have used their services in the past
- Use a programmable thermostat to regulate temperatures and save energy – A programmable thermostat allows you to set the temperature in your house automatically based on the time of day and your daily schedule. You can, for example, configure the temperature to be lower when you are at work or asleep and higher when you get home. This simple modification can result in huge energy bill reductions.
- Check the filters in your AC unit and replace them when needed – Checking and replacing filters is one of the most critical aspects of air conditioning maintenance. Dirty air filters may create a variety of issues, including decreased airflow and higher energy expenses. They can even cause frost accumulation on the coils in rare circumstances.
Don’ts:
- Wait until your AC breaks down to call for repairs – In most of the circumstances, AC can develop problems without warning. Not only will you have to endure the heat while you wait for the repairs to be completed, but you’ll also likely end up paying more for the repairs than you would have if you had called in advance.
- Open windows in order to cool down your house – This is actually one of the worst things you can do. Not only will it let in all the heat and humidity from outside, but it will also make your air conditioning work overtime to compensate. As a result, your energy bills will skyrocket and your house will never truly feel comfortable.
- Harsh chemicals or cleaning products when cleaning the filters or coils of your AC unit – They can damage the equipment as harsh chemicals and cleaning products can damage the filters or coils, making your air conditioner less effective and potentially leading to costly repairs. The best way to clean your air conditioner is to contact a professional who can do it safely and properly.
- Never close off vents in unused rooms – This causes the air conditioner to work harder, which uses more energy and can lead to premature wear and tear. In addition, closing vents can throw off the balance of air pressure in your home, making it difficult for the AC to evenly cool all of the rooms.
