Summer is undoubtedly the worst time for anyone’s air conditioner to break down. Unfortunately, air conditioners are most likely to break down during summer because this is when the equipment is put under the most stress and pushed to its limit. The good news is that there are multiple ways to help out your AC so that it can work as efficiently as possible for as long as possible.
Check out our tips below!
1. Keep an eye on the air filter, and have replacements ready.
On most disposable air filters, the package says that the product will last up to 90 days. During milder times of the year, your air filter may last much closer to the 90-day mark. However, when you’re relying on your AC to run throughout the day, every day during summer, the air filter will get dirty fast.
Set reminders on your phone to check the filter after the first 30 days, and then continue to check on the filter weekly after that. We recommend stocking up on air filter replacements in advance so that you always have one handy.
2. Don’t postpone “small” repairs.
Has your AC’s cooling ability started to go downhill? Has the equipment started to make a strange rattling, grinding, or squealing noise? These are the types of red flags that should be addressed right away to avoid bigger, more expensive repairs or a complete system replacement.
3. Avoid adding heat to your home.
Anything you can do to reduce strain on your AC is going to help it in the long run and give you lower energy bills immediately. Keep these tips in mind on hot days to ensure that you’re not giving your AC extra work to do:
- Avoid running any heat-generating appliances during the afternoon.
- Use the no-heat dry cycle on your dishwasher.
- Program your washing machine to launder your clothes in cold water whenever possible.
- Swap out your home’s incandescent lighting for LEDs wherever possible.
- Keep window treatments closed to block out afternoon sunlight.
- Use ceiling, floor, and table fans so that you can turn your thermostat up a few degrees.
4. Keep up with your air conditioner’s annual maintenance.
Over time, your air conditioner’s components can move, loosen, lose lubrication, and collect dust and grime—all of which reduce the equipment’s performance and efficiency. If neglected long enough, these small issues can even lead to a system failure. If you can’t remember the last time your air conditioner had a tune-up, then you know that it’s already overdue.
At Monarch Home Services, we’re proud to offer top-quality air conditioner maintenance, repairs, and installations. For assistance with your home’s AC system in Bakersfield, Fresno, or Visalia, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (661) 452-8707 or contact us online.