Make your Central Air Conditioner last longer; 10 secrets that your HVAC company does not want you to know.
As the summer months approach, keeping your central air conditioner running efficiently becomes a top priority. However, your HVAC company may not want you to know some secrets that can help extend the lifespan of your central air conditioner. In this article, we will share ten secrets your HVAC company may not want you to know to make your central air conditioner last longer.
1. Keep the Condenser Unit Clean:
The outdoor unit of your central air conditioner can accumulate dust, debris, and leaves, obstructing airflow and reducing efficiency. These can block the airflow, reduce efficiency, and cause damage to the system. You can clean the outdoor unit by turning off the power supply and hosing down the unit. Be careful not to damage the fins or coils while cleaning. Alternatively, you can contact Aircor Air Conditioning and Heating to do this for you. To keep your system running smoothly, clean the condenser unit regularly.
2. Use a Programmable Thermostat:
Using a programmable thermostat can help you save money on your energy bills and reduce wear and tear on your central air conditioner. You can set the temperature to increase when you are not home and decrease when you return, reducing the workload on your air conditioner.
Smart thermostats offer several benefits over traditional digital or analog thermostats. They are designed to increase energy efficiency by learning your schedule and preferences, adjusting the temperature to save energy when you are not at home or sleeping, and providing energy reports and usage insights. Smart thermostats offer advanced scheduling and programming options, allowing you to easily set different temperatures for different times of day or days of the week. Smart thermostats also provide remote access and control, allowing you to easily adjust the temperature from anywhere using your smartphone, tablet, or computer. They can be integrated with other smart home devices, such as smart lights, locks, and security systems, and can be controlled using voice commands through popular voice assistants. Overall, smart thermostats provide a more convenient and energy-efficient way to manage your home's heating and cooling, making them a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.
3. Change Air Filters Regularly:
Air filters are critical in keeping your central air conditioner running efficiently. They help to improve indoor air quality by trapping dust, dirt, and other airborne particles. Over time, air filters can become clogged, reducing airflow and making your air conditioner work harder. Replacing your air filters every two months or sooner if you have pets or allergies is recommended.
For people with allergies, it is recommended to use air filters with a MERV rating of 11 or higher. These filters effectively capture smaller particles, including mold spores, pollen, pet dander, and dust mites, common allergens. Higher MERV-rated filters are better at removing these particles from the air, resulting in cleaner indoor air and reducing allergy symptoms. Air filters MERV ratings refer to a system of measurement used to rate the effectiveness of air filters. The MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) scale ranges from 1 to 20, indicating the filter's ability to capture airborne particles. The higher the MERV rating, the more efficient the filter captures smaller particles. For example, a filter with a MERV rating of 8 will capture particles as small as 3 microns, including pollen, pet dander, and dust mites. However, it is essential to note that high MERV-rated filters may put more strain on your HVAC system, so it's crucial to check your system's compatibility before selecting an air filter with a higher rating.
4. Seal Ductwork:
Leaky ductwork can reduce the efficiency of your central air conditioner by up to 30%. Have a professional inspect your ductwork and seal any leaks or gaps to keep your system running smoothly.
There are various methods to seal air duct work, including tape, mastic sealant, and aerosol sealant. Tape is an easy and affordable option, but it may not be as effective as other methods. Mastic sealant is a paste-like substance that can cover seams and joints, creating an airtight seal. It is more durable than tape and has a longer lifespan. Aerosol sealant is another option that can be sprayed into the ductwork and seals small gaps and cracks. It is quick and easy to apply but may not be as effective as mastic sealant for more significant gaps. It's essential to choose the appropriate method based on the leaks' size and location and follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application.
5. Install a Surge Protector:
Power surges can cause damage to your central air conditioner's electrical components. Installing a surge protector can help protect your system from power surges and extend its lifespan.
A surge protector can safeguard an air conditioner by eliminating electrical spikes caused by power surges or lightning strikes, which can damage the appliance's electronic components and cause costly repairs or replacements. Additionally, surge protectors shield the air conditioner from direct lightning strikes, preventing power surges from overloading the electrical system and leading to damage or fire. Surge protectors use metal oxide varistors to absorb excess voltage and redirect it to the ground, ensuring the air conditioner remains protected and fully functional. They are crucial, particularly in areas prone to electrical disturbances or lightning strikes.
6. Make sure that your doors and windows are correctly sealed:
Ensuring that your doors and windows are properly sealed can significantly reduce the energy required to heat or cool your home. When doors and windows are not sealed properly, air leaks occur, allowing hot or cold air to escape or enter the house. This leads to energy loss as your HVAC system has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. By sealing your doors and windows properly, you can prevent air leaks and reduce the workload of your HVAC system, resulting in lower energy bills and a more comfortable living environment. Proper sealing can also reduce noise pollution and prevent the entry of dust and allergens into your home.
7. Schedule Regular Maintenance:
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your central air conditioner running smoothly. Schedule a maintenance check-up with Aircor Air Conditioning and Heating before the start of the summer season. A professional technician can clean the condenser coils, replace air filters, and check for leaks. A well-maintained air conditioner can last up to 15 years or more.
Regarding AC maintenance, Aircor air conditioning and heating is the most reliable resource you can count on. With decades of experience serving the Chicago area, their team of highly trained professionals will ensure that your air conditioning system is operating efficiently and effectively. Aircor's AC tune-up services include a comprehensive inspection of your entire system, cleaning of critical components, and any necessary repairs or replacements. By scheduling regular maintenance with Aircor, you can save money on energy costs, prolong the lifespan of your AC unit, and avoid costly breakdowns during peak usage—Trust Aircor to keep you cool and comfortable all summer long.
8. Invest in a High-Efficiency Unit:
Investing in a high-efficiency central air conditioner can help you save money on your energy bills and extend the lifespan of your system. High-efficiency units use less energy to produce the same amount of cool air, reducing the workload on your air conditioner.
The most efficient AC technology is Variable Speed. The Variable-Capacity or Variable-Speed Air Conditioner is a highly efficient cooling system that can adjust its cooling output in small increments, similar to a dimmer switch. This type of compressor is designed with a variable-speed motor that allows it to adjust the compressor's speed and capacity in real time based on the cooling needs of the space. As the demand for cooling changes, the compressor adjusts the speed of the motor to match the required cooling output, which results in small and precise changes in the cooling capacity. This technology offers greater energy efficiency, precise temperature control, and quieter operation than traditional compressors, making it a popular choice for many modern cooling systems.
9. Use Window Coverings:
Window coverings can help reduce the heat entering your home, reducing the workload on your central air conditioner. Window curtains and window blinds can save energy by providing insulation and controlling the amount of sunlight that enters a room. Closing curtains or blinds can help retain heat during cold weather by preventing warm air from escaping through windows. Similarly, during hot weather, closing curtains or blinds can reduce the amount of sunlight that enters a room, thus reducing the need for air conditioning. Additionally, some window coverings, such as honeycomb blinds, can provide extra insulation due to their unique design that traps air within their cells. Overall, using window curtains and blinds effectively can help reduce energy consumption and save money on heating and cooling bills.
10. Don't Wait to Repair:
If you notice any signs of trouble with your central air conditioners, such as strange noises, reduced airflow, or a malfunctioning thermostat, don't wait to repair it. Addressing issues promptly can help prevent further damage and extend the lifespan of your system.
Air conditioners can sometimes experience intermittent problems where they may work fine for some time but then suddenly stop working or malfunction. Various factors, such as dirty air filters, faulty wiring, or low refrigerant levels, can cause this. Power fluctuations or other electrical issues can also cause intermittent problems with air conditioners. These types of problems can be frustrating to deal with as they can be challenging to diagnose and may require the assistance of a professional technician to resolve fully. It's essential to address these issues promptly to prevent further damage to the unit and ensure the comfort and safety of those in the cooled space. If your AC is working intermittently, call Aircor, our technicians will take the time to check your AC thoroughly until the root of the problem is found.
In conclusion, keeping your central air conditioner running efficiently requires regular maintenance, cleaning the condenser unit, changing air filters, sealing ductwork, installing a surge protector, keeping windows and doors closed, investing in a high-efficiency unit, using window coverings, addressing any issues promptly. For professional HVAC services in Chicagoland, contact Aircor Air Conditioning and Heating, a trusted resource for all your heating and cooling needs.