As a dad, you want to ensure your family is comfortable during summer. Air conditioners are a common way to keep cool, but sometimes they can be tricky to operate.
This is because there are several tasks you need to be familiar with to ensure proper maintenance and operation. Here are six things every dad ought to know about air conditioners:
Regular Maintenance is Everything
This is essential for keeping your air conditioner in good repair and running at peak efficiency. Check the filter regularly, clean any debris obstructing airflow, and make sure all parts are tight and securely attached.
In addition, it is crucial to have your system serviced at least once a year. During this time, a qualified St Louis City, Missouri technician can check the refrigerant levels, inspect all parts for damage or excessive wear, and ensure everything is running correctly.
Sometimes, you may need to call in a professional for maintenance or repair. If you notice any strange noises or odd smells or if your system is running inefficiently, these are warning signs that something needs to be checked out. As you hire an HVAC service in St Louis City, look at the team’s experience, certification, and customer reviews. Look also if the team is trained to work with the type of AC you have at home. Understand also if they are available to provide emergency services as well.
Check the Filters
Air filters should be cleaned or replaced at least once a month, especially during peak cooling season. Dirty filters can cause energy losses due to restricted airflow and shorten the life of your air conditioner. To clean the filter, remove it from the unit and vacuum any dirt or debris. If there is severe buildup, rinse the filter in water and allow it to dry before replacing it.
As you inspect the filter, you should also check the general area around your unit’s compressor. Ensure there is nothing blocking air intakes or exhaust vents, as this could cause damage to the system and lead to higher energy bills.
Check Refrigerant Levels
Air conditioner refrigerants are chemicals that cool the air passing through the unit. Low refrigerant levels can cause the system to struggle and result in poor cooling performance. If you notice your air conditioner is not running as efficiently, have a technician come out and check if your refrigerant level needs to be recharged.
If you plan on doing the task yourself, it is essential to note that all refrigerants are toxic and must be handled cautiously. Make sure to refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions before attempting this process.
Understand the Different Types of Air Conditioners
Before you can properly maintain your air conditioner, you need to understand the different types available on the market. The most common type is a central air conditioning system, which uses ducts to distribute cool air throughout your home.
A window air conditioner is less expensive and offers a good alternative for cooling one specific room. Understanding the unit size, you need to cool your space correctly is essential. Heat pumps are also available, which offer both heating and cooling capabilities from one unit. They can be more energy efficient than running two separate systems.
Be Mindful of a Programmable Thermostat
Smart thermostats are becoming an increasingly popular way to save energy and money. These devices can be programmed to adjust temperatures automatically throughout the day, reducing energy usage by as much as 25%.
Additionally, they can be set to cool the home during peak hours when energy costs are higher, allowing you to enjoy the same level of comfort at a lower cost.
Know Your Unit’s Age
Air conditioners usually last 10-15 years, which can vary depending on the brand and maintenance schedule. Knowing your unit’s age is crucial because it will help determine if any repairs or replacements are needed soon.
The older the unit, the more likely it is to require maintenance and repairs, so it’s vital to stay ahead of any potential problems. Also, as technology advances, more energy-efficient models may become available that could save you money in the long run.
Only wait until your air conditioner stops working before doing something about it. This puts unnecessary strain on the system and can result in costly repairs or total system replacement. Doing the necessary maintenance and keeping an eye on potential issues will help ensure your air conditioner runs smoothly throughout the summer.
The key to air conditioners is knowing when to call a professional and how to maintain your system properly. Understanding the different types of units available and their respective sizes is essential to ensure they are cooling your space efficiently.
Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your air conditioner in good repair and running at peak efficiency.