Air conditioners struggle most when the temperatures peak in July and August. This happens because the extreme summer temperatures strain air conditioners that are already struggling because of age, neglect, or how they’re being used. When you can reduce the strain on your system, it’s more prepared to handle the hotter temperatures. Consider these seven smart ways to reduce the strain on your air conditioner this summer and avoid costly AC breakdowns.
1. Annual AC Maintenance
Annual AC maintenance works to maintain your system’s efficiency, which in itself reduces the operational strain. A technician achieves this by performing a deep cleaning, tightening mounting hardware and electrical connections, and testing individual components. That testing catches small problems before they wreak havoc on your system.
2. Change the Air Filter Regularly
One of the most significant strains on an air conditioner is restricted airflow through the system and the first place this happens is the air filter. It’s also the one thing that requires the most attention but the average user to keep air flowing effectively. Ideally, check your filter every month while knowing that you’ll need to replace 1- and 2-inch filters every 30 to 90 days. Larger filters may last from several months to up to a year depending on their size and construction, your home’s air quality, and how you use your HVAC system.
3. Leverage Thermostat Programs
Most people spend at least 8 hours a day away from the house, and there’s little need to keep the AC running at the normal temperature if nobody is home. If you have a single-stage AC, you can substantially reduce the wear on the system by increasing the temperature while you’re away. The Department of Energy (DOE) recommends using the programs on your thermostat to increase the temperature by 7 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit while you’re gone. Not only are they good for reducing the strain on your system, but it’s also a great way to save up to 10% of your annual cooling bill.
4. Keep Your Vents Open and Clear
Your system can’t regulate your home’s temperature properly if the cool air has a hard time getting out of the system and circulating. Unfortunately, closing vents, even in spaces you don’t normally use, restricts the circulation of conditioned air. Beyond opening the vents, you have to ensure each one has enough room to circulate the cool air into the rest of the room. Most industry experts recommend keeping at least 6 inches above and around each vent clear of obstructions like furniture.
5. Mind the 20-Degree Rule
Despite being so common in homes, there are a lot of property owners who don’t truly understand AC limitations and wear. Rather than thinking about keeping your home at a specific temperature, it’s better to follow the 20-Degree Rule. The rule recommends keeping your temperature set to about 20 degrees lower than the air outside. This prevents excessive strain on your system while providing the desired relief, especially during extreme temperatures.
6. Resolve Small Problems Quickly
Any component working suboptimally increases strain on the entire system, either by reducing efficiency or causing short cycling. It’s tempting to ignore small problems that don’t seem to significantly impact the system’s ability to cool under normal conditions. However, it’s enough strain that when temperatures rise it can cause the system to suffer a significant failure, which will create a need for more significant repairs. The testing that technicians perform during maintenance intends to give you time to address the issue before it cascades and causes a full breakdown.
7. Clear Around Your Outside Unit
Your unit must circulate air around your home to cool it and it must also circulate air through the outside unit to vent heat because air conditioners work by absorbing heat inside and venting it outside. If it cannot effectively expel that heat, it can’t continue absorbing heat inside, reducing the system’s efficiency. Failing to clear your unit can cause short cycling, straining every component of the system, and significant strain on the compressor. Most manufacturers recommend clearing at least 2 feet around the unit and 5 feet above it from debris like leaves, grass, weeds and tree or bush branches.
Huntingdon Valley got a great HVAC service partner when AAA Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning opened its doors in 1989. Our award-winning team provides heating and AC maintenance, repair and installation. We also offer indoor air quality solutions and water heater and generator installation and repair services. Call to schedule an AC maintenance or repair visit with one of our certified technicians today.
