Over a century ago, Willis Haviland Carrier came up with the modern idea of air conditioning. And ever since then, we’ve been relying on its’ power to cool our homes.
Today, air conditioning is a commonplace luxury that few of us would want to live without. This is especially true during the summertime when temps across the United States can sometimes rise to 100 degrees or higher.
Luckily, there are things that you can do to keep your AC running smoothly all year long.
With a little effort, there’s a good chance that you might never have to know what life was like before the invention of modern air conditioning.
Read on for 5 key steps that will ensure your air conditioner is there when you need it most!
1. Change Your Air Filter
Your air filter should be changed every month during the summer, due to its’ increased use this time of year.
This is an easy and cheap way to improve your air conditioner’s efficiency and keep it operating smoothly.
Skipping this step means that dust and grime will build up, causing your AC to work harder than it has to. And, it’ll cost you more money to run your unit, as well.
2. Clean Your Outside Unit
Your outside unit should be kept free of debris in order to keep your AC running to capacity. Limbs and other types of debris can also get stuck in the fan blades and damage the outdoor unit.
Check the unit regularly and remove any buildup that you might notice.
3. Examine Your Thermostat & Set a Base Temperature
If you’re constantly changing the temp of your thermostat, it will cost more money and force your air conditioner to work harder to cool your home.
Program your thermostat to maintain a base temperature.
And, check the thermostat’s batteries and functions to ensure that it is working properly.
4. Seal Leaks
Check your home’s windows and doors for leaks. And, when you find them, take action to seal leaks as soon as possible.
It’s also a good idea to check the interior and exterior of your home for other places that might be leaking air as well.
Even the smallest leaks can cause your AC to have to work overtime to keep your home temperature down.
When your air conditioner is forced to work harder, it can reduce its’ longevity substantially.
5. Schedule a Professional Maintenance Check
You should have someone who performs professional AC services to come and check your AC at least once a year.
But, if you notice any problems, don’t wait for another year to pass. Instead, call the pros immediately.
Ignoring issues can cause you to wind up with an even bigger problem on your hands. And, you definitely don’t want to wait until your AC goes out to tend to a problem.
Keep Your AC Running Smoothly
Keeping your air conditioner running smoothly will help to reduce your long term costs. But, there are some things you can do to lower your monthly expenses, too.
Stay tuned to our blog for more home and lifestyle tips.
