6 Home AC Maintenance Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Regular AC maintenance goes a long way toward having a more economical and efficient unit. But regardless of how much you’ve invested in your AC, if you’re not taking care of it, you’re hurting its lifespan.
It’s important to know the top AC maintenance mistakes so that you can fix any system problems and prevent them from getting worse.
Keep reading to learn about home AC maintenance mistakes and how to fix them.
1. Neglecting Regular Filter Changes
Dirty filters can reduce the efficiency of an AC unit, resulting in higher energy costs. The air inside the home can be loaded with contaminants that can be irritating to people with allergies.
To avoid this mistake, check your filter every month during the peak seasons and replace it if it looks dirty. It is also important to purchase quality filters. If your HVAC system has a reusable filter, clean it every month and return it to its housing.
2. Setting the Thermostat Too Low
By setting the thermostat too low and running your air conditioner faster than necessary. To avoid this mistake, set your thermostat between 65 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything lower can put extra strain on your air conditioner and cause it to consume more energy.
3. Skipping Professional Maintenance
Regular AC inspections ensure that all the necessary pieces of the air conditioner are cleaned and tested. This includes the blower, evaporator, condenser coils, filters, air ducts, and wiring.
It can also help detect small problems and repair them before they become bigger issues. Make sure to invest in regular professional maintenance to ensure that your AC unit is running at its peak performance.
4. Ignoring Outdoor Unit Maintenance
It is important to trim any tall grass, weeds, or foliage away from the outdoor unit. Homeowners should also clear away any debris or trash within a few feet of the unit.
Keeping the area around the outdoor unit clear and clean is essential to ensure proper airflow. Inspecting the unit monthly and ensuring that the condenser coil is free of dirt, dust, and debris is also important.
5. Overlooking Ductwork Inspections
Ducts that are not regularly maintained can cause energy inefficiency and pose a risk to your health. If left unchecked, bacteria, dirt, and debris can accumulate.
To avoid this problem, it is important to schedule a yearly inspection of the ducts, to ensure that all parts are fully intact and secure. It is essential to replace all air filters when recommended and or when they appear soiled.
6. Failing to Clean Evaporator Coils
Unchecked, dirt and debris on the coils can render the unit ineffective, or even cause damage, resulting in costly repairs. To keep your AC during winter maintained, clean the evaporator coils regularly.
Start by switching off power to the AC unit at the circuit breaker and removing the unit’s access panel. Vacuum the coils with a wet/dry vac fitted with a soft brush attachment when cleaning AC units. You can also purchase a commercial coil cleaner specifically made for the job.
Avoid These Home AC Maintenance Mistakes
Home AC maintenance can be easy if done right. Be sure to always check the condenser coils for dirt and debris, keep the evaporator/drainage pan clear, change the air filters regularly, and keep any outdoor units free of debris. Avoiding these home AC maintenance mistakes can extend the lifespan of your AC unit and keep it working efficiently.
Take advantage of these tips and contact your local AC expert for assistance should the need arise.
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