Air conditioning systems are a large investment for your home that should last for many years. The average air conditioner lasts between 10-15 years, but longer if properly maintained. Correctly caring for your cooling system can provide many benefits to your home, including lengthening its lifespan. In this article, we will list ways to preserve the life of your AC system.
Avoid an Overworked System!
Your air conditioner’s lifespan depends on the maintenance and care given. If an AC system is overworked, it leads to breakdowns and repairs. Wear and tear from frequent repairs harm its ability to cool your home each time. Below are 6 ways to avoid an overworked unit and extend its life.
- Maintain A Clean Outdoor Unit
- Regularly Change Your Air Filter
- Ensure Air Vents Are Open
- Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
- Install A Programmable Thermostat
- Pay Attention to Repair Warning Signs
Maintain A Clean Outdoor Unit
Your outdoor unit is exposed to all weather conditions and can collect debris. Debris such as sticks, grass, and trash can harm your air conditioner’s airflow and efficiency. If debris becomes lodged inside your AC unit, it can lead to possible damage. Maintaining a clean outdoor unit can improve your system’s ability to function and avoid decreasing its lifespan.
Regularly Change Your Air Filter
A dirty air filter can be the source of many air conditioner problems and repairs. If your air filter is clogged, your AC unit works harder to push air through the pores. It is essential to change your air filter every three months or sooner to maintain a healthy air conditioner.
Ensure Air Vents Are Open
Contrary to popular belief, you will not save money by closing air vents in your home. Closing vents can lead to built-up pressure and possible air duct leaks. If your ducts have air leaks, cool air escapes out of your home. Leaks make it difficult for your air conditioner to effectively cool your home and double the workload due to lost air. Additionally, you should not put furniture directly over air vents because the same problem may occur.
Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
Similar to doctor check-ups, your air conditioner should be looked at by a professional once a year. Your Universal Heating & Cooling technician can provide a thorough inspection to ensure all components are functioning correctly. We typically recommend scheduling AC maintenance in the spring before the summer season begins, because it allows time to prepare your unit for the upcoming cooling demands. A technician can catch a problem before it becomes one, which can increase the lifespan by preventing a breakdown.
Install A Programmable Thermostat
A programmable or smart thermostat can reduce your air conditioner’s workload. The home devices can alter your home’s temperature at different times, such as sleeping hours or during the workday. Raising the thermostat temperature during the summer can decrease the air conditioner’s load and the chance of overworking itself.
Pay Attention to Repair Warning Signs
Air conditioners often provide warning signs they will break down soon. Paying attention to the warning signals can prevent wear and tear and broken components. Below are common signals your unit needs repair soon.
- Insufficient airflow
- High utility bills
- Unusual noises
- Warm air from vents
- Bad odors
- Water leaks
- High humidity
If you take care of your air conditioner, it will take care of you. Consider these ways to preserve the life of your air conditioning system to ensure a long, healthy life! For air conditioning repair in Dayton, Ohio, call the experts at Universal Heating & Cooling!
