Summertime is the season you look forward to all year long. The warm weather, the beach, and the longer days make it the perfect time to relax and enjoy life. However, when it’s sweltering, there’s nothing much you can do but stay indoors where it’s cooler.
Unfortunately, if your air conditioner breaks down, you’re in for a real challenge. Get AC repair suggestions from Mister Quik Home Service to avoid AC letdowns. You’ll prepare your home for the heat while saving money on energy costs. Here are critical tips to follow.
Schedule an Annual Tune-Up
An annual tune-up by a knowledgeable technician will keep your system running all summer. Not to mention, it will also prevent future costly repairs. The exercise entails cleaning your unit’s exterior and interior components, replacing the air filter, and checking the Freon levels.
The technician will identify potential threats and correct them immediately to prevent further damage. They will also inspect the ductwork to ensure there are no leaks. Once they finish, they will test the unit to ensure it works correctly.
Keep The Air Conditioner Clean
Over time, dirt and debris accumulate on the coils of the AC, hampering its efficiency. As a result, the system has to work harder to cool your home, using more energy. To clean the coils, open the unit and remove any dirt or debris. Use a soft brush to remove any stubborn dirt.
Have the system professionally cleaned every year to ensure it runs smoothly. Experts have the skills and tools to reach the unit’s nooks and crannies, something you might not be able to do on your own.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
If you have an old AC unit, it probably doesn’t have a programmable thermostat. These devices allow you to set the temperature at specific times of the day. For example, you can set it to cool your home an hour before you get back from work. Doing so ensures you don’t come home to a hot, stuffy house.
Moreover, a programmable thermostat will save you money on energy bills. A smart thermostat is even better as it allows you to control the unit from your smartphone. If you have an old AC, replace it with a new, more efficient model.
Use Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans circulate the air in your home, making it more relaxed. They also use less energy than your air conditioner, lowering energy bills. When using your AC unit, set the thermostat to a higher temperature and use ceiling fans to cool your home.
Close The Curtains Or Blinds
Keeping your curtains or blinds closed during the day blocks the sun’s heat. As a result, your home will stay cooler, and the AC won’t have to work as hard. Invest in black-out curtains to keep your home cool and dark during the day. Insulated curtains are also excellent as they keep the cold air in.
Replace Air Filters
The AC has an air filter that removes dirt, dust, and pollen from the air. However, this filter becomes clogged over time, making it difficult for air to pass through. As a result, your system has to work harder to cool your home, using more energy.
Replace the air filter every few months to ensure it doesn’t get clogged. A good rule of thumb is to replace it every three months. If you have pets, replace the filter more often. You can contact the professionals of Custom Filters Direct if you want to buy air filters but do not know the exact size that will fit in your AC.
Keep Vents Clear
AC vents circulate the air in your home and help cool it. However, if they’re blocked, the system must work harder, using more energy. Keep vents clear of furniture, rugs, and other objects to maximize airflow. You should also have them professionally cleaned every few years to remove any dirt or debris.
Regular Maintenance Guarantees Efficiency
Remember to have the system serviced by a knowledgeable and friendly technician before the start of the season. Doing so prevents potential issues and guarantees efficiency. Additionally, keep the air conditioner clean and replace it when needed. To ensure your air conditioner runs smoothly during the summer, it’s important to follow an A/C maintenance checklist. Schedule an annual tune-up, keep the air conditioner clean, use a programmable thermostat, utilize ceiling fans, close the curtains or blinds, replace air filters regularly, and keep vents clear to maximize airflow.