In other parts of the country, folks may be feeling a nip in the air. But here in Texas, homeowners know that they’ll be relying on their air conditioners for a while longer. You want your system to run cold and efficiently until you no longer need it. Here are some tips to help your A/C continue to do its best.
- Keep your compressor clean. Turn off the power, and hose it off. Also check your condenser coil. If it’s dirty, and you’re a fairly skilled DIYer, use a coil brush to gently clean the coil. When the unit is dry, turn the power back on. If you don’t feel comfortable cleaning the coil, call your HVAC-system expert.
- Check the air filter. Your air filter can get dirty quickly. Pull it out once a month, and hold it up to the light. If you can’t see through it, either replace it or wash it–depending on what your system specifies. If you don’t know, check your owner’s manual, or call your HVAC-system expert.
- Be realistic about your thermostat settings. You want your A/C running cold, but it’s not supposed to be running full-blast all the time. Plan for a realistic temperature–a maximum of 20 to 25 degrees cooler than outside. The U.S. Department of Energy suggests that you set your thermostat at 78 degrees when you’re home.
- Seal the air leaks in your home. Leaks, especially around windows and doors, can contribute to a significant amount of wasted energy. Most leaks can be easily sealed with caulk or weatherstripping.
- Keep using your fans, as they help you feel more comfortable, even if they don’t actually cool the air. Just remember to turn off the fan when you leave the room and to turn up the thermostat. If you don’t, you won’t be saving any energy.
An A/C that’s running cold will keep you cool as long as you need it. For help with your cooling needs, contact Bill Joplin’s Air Conditioning & Heating. We are proud to serve homeowners in McKinney and the surrounding area.
