Top 7 Things You Should Never Do To Your AC Unit
As the summer heat approaches, it’s crucial to ensure that your cooling system is functioning properly. While some DIY air conditioner maintenance tasks may be manageable, you should know when to leave certain repairs and upkeep to HVAC professionals. Attempting to tackle complex tasks without proper knowledge and training can lead to costly mistakes and even put your family’s safety at risk.
According to experts in HVAC, being proactive and taking proper care of your air conditioning unit can prevent many costly problems down the line. To maintain optimal efficiency and comfort in your home, you have to be mindful of what tasks you should and should not undertake.
Seven Things You Should Not Do To Your Home Air Conditioning Unit
Contents
- 1 Seven Things You Should Not Do To Your Home Air Conditioning Unit
- 1.1 1. Regularly Inspect & Replace Air Filters
- 1.2 2. Keep the AC Condenser Clear
- 1.3 3. Don’t Leave Your Air Conditioner Off for Extended Periods
- 1.4 4. Avoid Cranking the Air Conditioner
- 1.5 5. Don’t Power Wash the AC Unit
- 1.6 6. Schedule Regular Air Conditioner Tune-ups
- 1.7 7. Leave Air Conditioner Repairs to the Professionals
- 1.8 Conclusion
- 2 Call Lawes Company For HVAC Repair Requirements
Below are some tips that will help keep your home air conditioner working optimally during the summer.
1. Regularly Inspect & Replace Air Filters
Air conditioning systems are designed to improve indoor air quality by filtering out dust and other contaminants. However, these filters do not maintain themselves and need to be regularly checked and replaced. Neglecting to do so can lead to a decline in air conditioning efficiency and home comfort. It is recommended to inspect the filters at least once a month and replace them every two to three months. If you have pets and small children, the replacement should be done more regularly. If you are unsure of how to replace the filters, ask your HVAC professional to demonstrate during your next scheduled AC tune-up.
2. Keep the AC Condenser Clear
The condenser unit located outside of your home plays a crucial role in the functioning of your air conditioning system. It functions by pulling in air to cool the refrigerant and release the cool air into your home. In order for the condenser to effectively perform this task, it needs ample space around it to allow for proper airflow and ventilation. Any objects or debris placed near the unit can obstruct the airflow and negatively impact the efficiency of the system.
One common mistake homeowners make is placing plants or landscaping too close to the condenser unit. While it may seem like a good idea to beautify the area, it is important to keep in mind that plants can block the airflow and restrict the condenser’s ability to function properly. To ensure proper airflow and extend the lifespan of the condenser, it is best to keep plants several feet away from the unit. This will not only improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system but also save you money on energy costs in the long run.
3. Don’t Leave Your Air Conditioner Off for Extended Periods
Leaving your air conditioner off for extended periods may seem like a cost-saving measure. However, it can actually harm the unit. You should run the cooling unit, even when temperatures outside are not as high. Running the HVAC unit helps to prevent dust and mold from settling inside. Keep the unit running for a few minutes every day or two to maintain its health.
4. Avoid Cranking the Air Conditioner
When temperatures rise to extreme levels, it may be necessary to run your air conditioner for longer periods of time to keep your home comfortable. However, it’s important to balance the need for cooling with the longevity and efficiency of your air conditioning system. One way to do this is by keeping the thermostat sensor set as high as possible while still maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home.
This can be achieved by taking advantage of cooler nights and days to give the unit a rest, which will reduce the strain on its parts and the amount of refrigerant used. This not only prolongs the life of your air conditioner but also helps you save money on energy costs. Additionally, it is a good idea to invest in energy-efficient appliances, sealing off any leaks and cracks in your home, and using window coverings to block out sunlight, which will help you reduce the load on your AC and save on energy bills.
5. Don’t Power Wash the AC Unit
Cleaning an air conditioner unit is important. However, using a powerful hose or submerging your outdoor AC unit in water is not the correct method. Instead, gently remove leaves and debris from the inside and outside of the unit and avoid using a powerful approach. If more cleaning is needed, seek the help of certified and experienced HVAC technicians.
6. Schedule Regular Air Conditioner Tune-ups
Regular inspections and tune-ups of your air conditioning system can prevent small problems from becoming costly and extensive issues. Neglecting to have your system checked and maintained increases the risk of breakdowns, lower efficiency, and costly repairs. By scheduling regular tune-ups, you can ensure that your system is running at optimal efficiency, reducing energy costs and prolonging its lifespan. If you haven’t scheduled a tune-up for your air conditioner, now is a great time to do so.
7. Leave Air Conditioner Repairs to the Professionals
DIY AC unit repairs on an air conditioning system can be risky and costly without proper training and experience. Even small mistakes can end up costing more than hiring a trained technician to do the job correctly the first time. It is always best to seek the help of certified and experienced HVAC professionals for installations, maintenance, and repairs. Before hiring a service company, research their references, reviews, licensing, and insurance coverage to ensure that you are getting quality work for one of the most important and expensive systems in your home.
Conclusion
Properly maintaining your air conditioning system is crucial during the warm summer months when temperatures are high. Keep filters clean, the machinery running and resting as needed, and do not block the condenser. Be mindful while cleaning and schedule regular tune-ups to ensure the longevity of your system. Trust the expert services and advice of certified HVAC professionals to take care of your home’s cooling needs.
Call Lawes Company For HVAC Repair Requirements
Lawes Company provides advanced heating and cooling services for residents of Monmouth and Ocean Counties, New Jersey. By working with us, you are assured of a certified technician who is able to provide excellence in HVAC tune-ups, timely repairs, professional installation, and more. All of our techs have the knowledge as well as the experience to service HVAC systems correctly.
Lawes Company guarantees competitive heating and cooling costs. Our maintenance service is sure to improve your comfort, increase energy efficiency and reduce home heating and cooling expense. If you need an HVAC repair or a replacement system, let us recommend the best solution for your home while working within your budget. Our company backs our work with a guarantee to ensure your satisfaction. If you are ready to schedule an appointment, just pick up your phone and give Lawes Company a call. Ask us about our free, in-home estimates.
Contact us now at (732) 741-6300 to find out more! Click the link to view our service area.