Air Conditioning Mistakes
Keep your air conditioner in good working order by keeping it properly maintained. Regular maintenance for your air conditioning system will ensure it works well beyond its expected life and won’t break down in the heat of summer when you need it most.
In order to keep your AC running like it should, follow this guide to avoid making common air conditioning mistakes.
1. Turning It All the Way Down
Is there a safe temperature? Not exactly, but to be sure your air conditioning unit is running at optimal efficiency, you should set it at a moderate level rather than cranking it down.
This mistake stems from a belief people had before they understood the workings of their units. Turning your AC down to the lowest possible setting won’t make it work harder and faster to cool your home. It will have to work as hard to cool your home one degree as it would for 15, but the latter will take much, much longer.
To lengthen the life of your unit, keep your thermostat set to a reasonable temperature and let it run a little warmer if no one’s home. There’s no need to cool your house when no one is there to enjoy it.
2. Not Cleaning the Air Conditioner
Keeping your air conditioner clean will maximize its ability to chill the air. The fins that surround your unit and the coils inside help keep the AC unit itself cool. They also aid the evaporators in your house and condensers outside in capturing heat.
The fins and coils help remove any heat soak that may occur, but they can be hampered and become less efficient if they are caked with grime. Poor cleaning will make your unit work harder under more heat, thus making it less efficient. Make sure you clean your air conditioner before you get it running for the season, and always check it after wind-heavy storms.
3. Putting Off Replacing Your AC Unit
When it comes to cooling your home, the biggest mistake you can make is using an air conditioner that is past its prime. Old air conditioners are inefficient and will cost you more money to run. And if they break down, they’ll cost you even more in repairs.
The initial cost of installing a new AC can be high, but because new models are more efficient, you will see a great return on your investment. You’ll save money on energy bills by purchasing a newer model. If your AC is more than 10 years old, consider shopping around for a new unit.
4. Ignoring the Air Filter
Pay attention to your air conditioner’s filter. These filters capture dust, dirt, pollen and other allergens as air makes its way through your system. Filters are usually made from plastic, cardboard, wire, and foam or paper, and should be replaced at least once a season.
Once these filters become filled with the debris they’re designed to remove, airflow becomes blocked. As a result, your AC system loses efficiency and allows more dust into your home. Your filter is easily accessible, so pull it out and check it if you think it may be clogged. If it looks filthy, it’s time for a replacement.
Make No Mistakes: Contact Ranck to Inspect Your AC
Another big mistake is not doing the proper upkeep on your AC unit. If you’re located near Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and need your air conditioner maintained, repaired or replaced, just call us at Ranck Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. We service all makes and models and are an authorized dealer for Trane® and Rheem® products.
We have years of experience working on HVAC systems, extensive knowledge of most brands and are locally owned. We believe in doing the work right the first time to form good working relationships, so we offer free quotes and the best service you’ll find in Lancaster.
Schedule an appointment to have your AC unit inspected today!