You’ve probably experienced this one. On the hottest day of the year, the air conditioner in your home is blowing out warm air or stops working entirely. Along with hundreds of other people in our community, you grab the phone to call your HVAC specialist, and suffer with the heat until they arrive. Although some A/C problems will require a professional technician, here are a few tips that can be used to minimize the chance of this happening to you this summer.
Max-Out the Air Flow
To work properly, your air conditioner needs to pull air through the system, including recirculating air inside your home. If the air flow is blocked in any way, it can end up translating to money out of pocket for you. To assure you have the manufacturer suggested air flow, make sure to keep clear the immediate area around the vents - indoors and outside. This includes trimming back vegetation and cleaning dirt away from vents.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
Beyond helping reduce energy costs by regulating your home’s temperature, programmable thermostats can also help minimize impact on your system. Program your air conditioner for warmer temperatures when the home is empty or at night when it cools down outside.
Another tip is to program your thermostat for extended run-cycles. While this does not necessary prevent problems, it can help reduce humidity in your the Wasatch Front region area home. This can offer a more comfortable environment, as well as keep mold spores from thriving in your home.
Watch Out for Those Pests
Some bugs and pests are attracted to central air units, which can be damaging if they get inside the system. To keep ants and other pests away, use an eco-friendly pesticide around the foundation of the unit and check on it regularly throughout the summer.
Stay Level
Nearly all outdoor A/C units rest on a concrete slab or other platform, permitting them a level base of operation. However, over time these can settle or sag, limiting the performance of the air conditioner. Keep an eye on your outdoor component to ensure that the base continues to stay level.
Of course, regular maintenance, such as lubrication and filter changes, are very important to keep your air conditioner running smoothly. Call 801-436-8985 to schedule system maintenance review before the summer starts to ensure your system is ready to face the hot days ahead. By following these simple tips, you may be able to decrease the chance of several common A/C problems and have a stress-free and climate controlled home all summer.