Tips to Keep Your Air Conditioner Running Smoothly

At Rooter Hero, we provide reliable services for local customers including AC repair and maintenance tasks. An air conditioner can act as a lifeline during hot summers. To ensure that your AC offers the rest you need without consuming excessive energy or falling prey to wear and tear, it's essential to maintain it effectively. Here's a streamlined guide to ensuring its smooth operation.

Ensure Windows and Doors Are Sealed

The efficiency of an AC largely depends on the indoor environment. When windows and doors are left open, the cold air easily escapes while warm air seeps in. This not only challenges the AC's capacity but also makes it work harder, reducing its lifespan. Therefore, it's vital to keep windows and doors shut, especially during peak hours. If you feel drafts around them, consider using weather stripping or sealant. Educating family members on its importance can also make a significant difference.

Seal Attic Leaks and Window Gaps

Your house might have hidden escape routes for the cool air that your AC produces. These often reside in attics or as gaps in older windows. A routine inspection for daylight or drafts in your attic can help you spot these issues. Checking windows for any spaces or gaps, especially if they are old, can prevent cool air leaks. Sealing these areas with insulating foam or caulk can help retain the cool air inside.

Set a Consistent Thermostat Temperature

For an AC to run efficiently, consistency is key. If you're frequently adjusting the thermostat, the system will have to recalibrate and overwork. Hence, it's advisable to set a comfortable base temperature, usually between 76°F to 78°F when indoors. If you're stepping out, a slight increase is fine. For added convenience, consider a programmable thermostat, which can adjust temperatures based on your set schedule.

Prioritize Filter Replacement

Since it’s responsible for ensuring clean air circulation, your air filter needs regular attention. If not cleaned or replaced, a clogged filter can hamper efficiency and damage the unit over time. It's recommended to inspect the filter every month and replace it at least every 3 months. Choosing the right quality and fit for your model is also a must.

Maintain Register Efficiency

A blocked or dirty register can obstruct airflow. So, ensure that furniture or other obstructions are not in their way. Cleaning them occasionally also helps in maintaining good airflow. And as tempting as it might be to close vents in unused rooms, doing so can strain the system.

Tend to the Condenser

The heart of the cooling process lies outside within the condenser unit. This unit requires an unhindered environment to properly facilitate heat exchange. Keeping it free from obstructions, like shrubs or debris, is very important for maintaining the system long-term.

Allow Airflow in All Rooms

Contrary to popular belief, closing off rooms doesn't save energy. In fact, it disrupts the balance of pressure and airflow, pushing the AC to work harder. To maintain even cooling, it's better to keep interior doors open. For rooms that feel cooler, ceiling fans can help circulate air more efficiently.

Are You Looking for a Local HVAC Company?

Ensuring the smooth operation of your AC is a blend of regular maintenance and mindful practices. Adopting the strategies mentioned above will not only guarantee comfort but also lower energy bills and extend the life of your unit. Have you been searching for an HVAC company that will put your needs first? Reach out to the team at Rooter Hero today and get the help you need. Whether you need a simple filter change or an emergency air conditioning repair service, our professionals are always eager to help. Contact our office to learn more or to schedule an appointment for your next AC repair, replacement, installation or maintenance service.