Central air conditioners are the most popular cooling system for homeowners to install. It’s important to prioritize upkeep and maintenance to protect your system. As a homeowner, you need to understand how your central AC unit works so you can make it last as long as possible, increase its energy efficiency, and keep your home cool and comfortable.
Take a look at these central AC dos and don’ts to better maintain your unit and keep your home cool during the entire summer.
Do: Have Your System Professionally Installed
Work with a professional to ensure your central AC performs properly and has a longer lifespan. Professional technicians will inspect your home to assess what size central AC unit is best. Additionally, a professional must install a central air conditioner correctly so they can calculate cooling loads properly and select the best equipment for installing and charging the systems.
Your AC can run into a number of problems if it is too big, too small, or incorrectly installed, including:
- Reduced Efficiency
- Increased Energy Bills
- Shortened Lifespan
- Uneven Cooling
- Frequent Breakdowns
- Warranty Voidance
- Safety Concerns
Don’t: Skip Annual Maintenance
It can be easy to forget annual AC maintenance. However, regular air conditioning maintenance is essential to the performance and longevity of your system. Having your air conditioner serviced on a yearly basis can improve its cooling performance, keep your utility costs low, and avoid breakdowns and repairs.
Typical maintenance includes:
- Changing the Air Filter
- Cleaning the Coils
- Checking Refrigerant Levels
- Inspecting the Electrical System
- Inspecting Ductwork
Do: Check & Replace the Air Filter Often
One practice of air conditioner dos and don’ts that should be done regularly is checking and replacing the air filter. A dirty air filter can decrease the air quality in your home, reduce the cooling performance of your air conditioner, or even cause breakdowns, malfunctions, or system damage.
You should check the air filter in your air conditioner monthly during the cooling season and replace it if it looks black or clogged. A professional technician can help you find your central AC unit’s most energy-efficient air filter.
Don’t: Let Debris Build Up Near the Outdoor Unit
Your air conditioner relies on airflow to do its job efficiently. If tall grass, weeds, leaves, snow, and other debris accumulate around the unit outside your home, the cooling performance of your air conditioner may suffer. This could lead to the system malfunctioning.
If these objects get into the unit, it can break down, leading to costly repairs. To ensure a stable environment for the outside unit, mow and trim grass and weeds that grow around it and clean up sticks and other debris regularly.
Do: Install a Programmable Thermostat
Installing a programmable thermostat can help you keep your cooling costs low without sacrificing your comfort. Of all the dos and don’ts of an air conditioner, this one can lead to significant cost savings.
By installing a programmable thermostat, you can reap various benefits, including:
- Energy Savings: Automatically adjusts temperature settings to reduce energy usage when you’re not home.
- Cost Efficiency: Lowers utility bills by optimizing heating and cooling cycles.
- Consistent Temperature: Maintains a steady and comfortable temperature throughout the day.
- Customized Settings: Allows personalized schedules to fit your lifestyle and preferences.
Don’t: Ignore Strange Noises, Smells, or Behaviors
If your air conditioner is acting strange, call a professional as soon as possible. Some of the most common issues include:
- Strange Noises: Unusual sounds such as grinding, squealing, or banging can indicate problems like loose components, motor issues, or debris in the system. Ignoring these noises can lead to more severe damage and costly repairs.
- Unusual Odors: Foul or musty smells emanating from your air conditioner can signal mold growth, electrical problems, or burning components. If not addressed promptly, these issues can affect your indoor air quality and pose health risks.
- Abnormal Operation: If your air conditioner cycles on and off frequently, struggles to maintain the set temperature, or blows warm air, these are signs of underlying problems such as refrigerant leaks, thermostat malfunctions, or compressor issues.
These symptoms are signs of air conditioner problems, meaning you need prompt air conditioner repairs. Timely intervention helps maintain your system’s efficiency, prolongs its lifespan, and avoids more extensive and expensive repairs down the line.
GAC Services offers air conditioning services in Gaithersburg, Frederick County, Montgomery County, Carroll County, and Howard County. Contact our AC technicians if you need a replacement, repair job, or maintenance service.
