
How to Keep Your Air Conditioner Running at Peak Performance This Summer
Air conditioning units that run at peak performance run at peak efficiency. This means you save money on energy costs and have a system that runs all summer. However, lack of maintenance (especially during the summer) causes many AC units to run well below peak efficiency. So, with the proper maintenance measures, your AC could perform at an optimal level while providing savings on your monthly energy bills. All you will need are a few tips on proper maintenance and a professional servicing from a team of experts like our own, at Gibbon Heating & Air Conditioning.
Change the Filters
Dirty or clogged air filters can cause many issues within your HVAC system, including damage to certain AC components and decreased efficiency. This is because clogged filters force your air conditioner to work harder to move cool air, which puts strain on many of the unit’s mechanical components. An overworking AC will cause a rise in energy costs. For this reason, filters should be changed at least once a month during the summer to prevent a large collection of dirt, dust and other particles from building up in your system and entering your home.
Ensure You Have Proper Ventilation
Improper ventilation is another thing that can cause your AC unit to work harder and reduce its efficiency. Besides that, air conditioners without proper ventilation are more likely to break down due to the increased workload. The best way to ensure your unit is properly ventilated is to inspect around it and remove any debris, enclosures or overgrown grass and bushes. These are the most common inhibitors of good ventilation.
Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
Programmable or smart thermostats can help reduce the workload on your unit and reduce energy bills. With a programmable thermostat, you can set when you want your air conditioner to run and at what temperature. During the summer, you can set it to run cooler during the day and warmer at night. Additionally, you can set it to run warmer when you’re out or at work, and cooler when you return home. This is especially handy if you spend lots of time at the park or beach during the summer.
With a smart thermostat, you can control an AC unit from anywhere. This way, you can turn the air conditioning to your desired temperature before you get home. This will help keep your unit efficient and allow you to save on energy costs. It’s especially convenient if you don’t spend a lot of time at home during the day, and don’t want to pay for unused energy.
General Preventative Maintenance
One of the best ways to ensure your air conditioning unit runs at an optimal level is to have preventative maintenance performed by a professional. Equipment that isn’t properly maintained will run longer than necessary, which can cause issues down the road, like a break down and the need for major repairs. Calling Gibbon Heating & Air Conditioning to inspect and perform preventative, routine maintenance on your system during the spring will help ensure your air conditioner is safe, efficient and ready for the summer.