You’ve probably experienced this one. On the hottest day of the year, the air conditioner in your home starts blowing out warm air or stops operating altogether. Along with hundreds of other people in our community, you reach for the phone to call your HVAC specialist, as you and your family brave the heat. While some A/C issues absolutely require a professional to service them, here are a few tips that can be used to decrease the likeliness of this happening to you this summer.
Max-Out the Air Flow
For the A/C system to work correctly, you need to ensure the air is pulling through properly, including recirculating air inside your home. If Air blockage or obstruction of any kind can cause problems in your unit. To assure you have the manufacturer suggested air flow, make sure to keep the area clear around the vents - indoors and outside. This includes scaling back vegetation and cleaning dirt away from vents.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
Beyond helping reduce energy costs by regulating your home’s temperature, programmable thermostats can also help minimize impact on your system. Program your air conditioner for warmer temperatures when the home is empty or at night when it cools down outside.
Also, program your thermostat for extended run-cycles. While this does not necessary prevent problems, it can help bring down the humidity in your Hillsborough area home. This can provide a more comfortable environment, plus keep mold spores from developing in your home.
Watch Out for Those Pests
For some reason certain bugs and pests are attracted to air conditioning units, which can be detrimental if they get inside the system. To keep ants and other pests away, use an eco-friendly pesticide around the exterior of the unit to keep them from “bugging” your air conditioner.
Stay Level
The majority of outdoor A/C units are situated on a concrete slab or other platform, permitting them a level base of operation. However, the weight of the unit and ground moisture can cause your unit’s platform to sag or sink, hindering the performance of the air conditioner. Every now and then, look at your outdoor component to confirm that the base continues to stay level.
Of course, regular maintenance, such as lubrication and filter changes, are very important to keep your air conditioner functioning well. Make sure to schedule a check up before the summer starts to ensure your system is ready to face the hot days ahead. Following these suggestions, you may be able to avoid A/C problems and have a stress-free and climate controlled home all summer.