In the midst of the hot summer months, it’s crucial to remember the importance of maintaining your air conditioning (AC) system. As the temperatures start climbing, AC units consume excessive energy and are more likely to malfunction or fail. To avoid such issues, regular air conditioning maintenance and filter replacements can help ensure access to a cool and comfortable indoor environment.
Investing time and effort towards maintenance offers you and your home more long-term benefits, such as saving money, time and reliability. Regular maintenance checks with a professional and filter replacements can extend the lifespan of your system, saving you from the hassle and expense of premature repairs or replacements. A well-maintained AC unit also operates more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills.
A few steps to ensure your AC unit is ready to withstand the summer months are:
Schedule maintenance checks with a professional
While it is always good to do regular check-ins to make sure your AC is running smoothly, a once-annual air conditioning service is recommended. Even if your system is working correctly, it is good to have it checked out once a year by a professional.
Routinely replace or clean filters
AC filters should be cleaned or replaced every 90 days, if you have the filter that is less than one inch thick.. If you are having problems or allergies, then it is recommended to replace or clean it every 45 days for max efficiency. Newer systems use a five inch thick filter that should last from six months to a year unless you have pets or a lot of dust getting in your home. Check it on a regular basis to monitor for excessive dirt and change when needed.
Other signs that indicate it is time for a filter replacement include excessive dirt, tears or damage. Homeowners should also note that disposable cardboard filters are not meant to be cleaned. Otherwise, filters can be cleaned by hand.
Clean the area around the outdoor unit
It is easy to forget that debris, plants or weeds can block airflow in the outdoor unit, preventing the AC from working efficiently. Keeping the area around the unit clean ensures that nothing interferes with the system’s ability to work.
Save yourself both time and money by investing in air conditioning maintenance, especially during the summer months. With the average cost of a central AC unit being over $7,500, taking proactive measures to maintain your system can help you avoid expensive repairs or replacements down the line.
If you have any questions regarding air conditioning maintenance, call 580-357-4956 or visit www.comanchehousing.com.
