Summer is quickly approaching. The cold weather is set to turn warm. Then it moves from warm to hot. This is when someone would need an air conditioner. It is advisable to check if the AC is working as summer approaches. Besides, the AC will give better service with a longer lifespan when its properly maintained. Here are some 5 air conditioner do-it-yourself maintenance tips:
Clean or Replace the Air Filter
There are two types of ACs. There are ones that come with reusable filters and ones that don’t. ACs with reusable filters should be cleaned while those that don’t have should be replaced. Do this every often. Generally, do this once a month in the summer and once in three months in winter.
Cleaning/replacing filters is important because it helps remove the clog of dust or dirt in the AC. Clogged ACs use a lot of energy to run hence consuming a lot of electricity. In addition, the family is protected from developing allergies that come from dust or dirt.
Close the Windows while Running the AC
Opening the windows while running the AC is a terrible idea. Although many people do this to allow fresh air to come inside, this only makes the AC run over time. The AC will produce a lot of coolness which will easily escape through the window. This makes the AC more likely to break down because it’s running overtime.
Clean the Condenser and Evaporator Units
Most ACs have a condenser unit placed outside to disperse heat during the summer. This unit is like to get clogged by dust or dirt. This makes the AC consume more energy when running. Also, it may affect the airflow needed to cool the house in the summer. This is why it is advisable to clean the evaporator and condenser units as the summer approaches.
Luckily, it’s not that hard. All that is needed is a screwdriver and a portable vacuum cleaner. Use the screwdriver to unscrew some of the components. Then use the portable vacuum cleaner to suck out the dust and dirt in those two units.
Purchase a Programmable Thermostat
The benefit of having a programmable thermostat is that one can easily change the settings. For example, the AC unit can be set in such a way that it remains idle during the day. This lowers the monthly utility bill. Also, one can program the AC unit to start producing coolness a few moments before arriving home.
Avoid major temperature swings in the house. Set the temperature of the AC to match the indoor temperature. Do not fiddle with the indoor AC temperature. This will make the AC unit consume a lot of energy and reduce its lifespan.
Clean the AC Unit
First, cut off the AC power supply. Then remove the access panel. Check if there’s something that is restricting the flow of air. Anything that is near the AC should be at least 5 feet from it. Restricting the airflow will only make the AC consume more energy.
Now clean the AC. Start from the outside elements. A lot of debris accumulates here. Get a garden hose and use it to remove the debris and build-up in the AC. Use a less powerful hose to avoid damaging the parts of your AC. The AC unit will be good to go with these 5 tips. Remember that regular maintenance is one of the ways to ensure the AC has a longer lifespan. This helps save money and helps the AC run smoothly. As summer approaches, practice one of these tips. Ensure the performance of the AC is up-to-speed as summer approaches. Support the health of your home by using the best HEPA air purifier.