As a Texas resident, you rely on air conditioning for home comfort most of the year. Your HVAC equipment gets quite a workout every summer, but fortunately there are ways to extend A/C system life. The following four tips not only help you save on replacement costs, but they also reduce cooling costs by improving efficiency.
Replace the Air Filter
HVAC air filters are designed to catch dust, hair, textile fibers and other debris as they circulate through the ductwork. This causes the filter to become clogged over time, blocking airflow and straining the cooling equipment. Make it a habit to check the filter monthly and change it when it appears dirty, waiting no more than three months between changes.
Clean the Outdoor Condenser
Another way to extend A/C system life is to keep the condenser clean. This unit, typically located on a concrete slab outside your home, needs ample airflow. Trim back vegetation to prevent blocking airflow and periodically hose down the unit to help keep the coil within the condenser clean.
Schedule Annual Preventive Maintenance
While changing the filter and keeping the condenser clean are important maintenance steps, other more in-depth services can only be achieved by an experienced technician. Tasks such as recharging the refrigerant, lubricating moving parts, testing airflow and tightening electrical connections ensure your equipment runs at peak efficiency without any unnecessary strain. Spring is the best time to schedule a maintenance visit so your air conditioner is set up for a successful summer of cooling.
Keep All Supply Registers Open
When the ductwork and air conditioner were installed, the system should have been carefully balanced. If you close doors and vents to unused rooms in an attempt to save energy, you actually put undue stress on your cooling equipment. Make sure you keep at least 80 percent of your home’s supply registers open at all times.
To help extend A/C system life and lower your energy bills, check out the preventive maintenance plans available from Bill Joplin’s Air Conditioning & Heating. You can also schedule an appointment by calling 888-414-4655.
