How to Extend the Life of an Air Conditioning Unit
Scheduling air conditioning service tasks can significantly prolong the lifespan of systems while also decreasing the amount of energy consumed and the frequency of repairs. Some causes of early system breakdown include clogged filters, leaks, electrical issues, and inadequate air circulation. System components may wear out more quickly due to environmental factors such as high humidity. Here are a few ways to extend the life of an air conditioning unit:
Replace or Clean Filters
Air filters are the first line of protection against dust, pollen, and other air particles entering your system; when filters are filled with these particles, the air conditioning unit has to operate more to force air through the blockage. This overload exerts undue pressure on the blower motor and other parts in the system. All filter types require replacement at different frequencies. Basic filters should be changed often, while others can last longer before needing to be changed.
Visible accumulation of dirt or irregular energy consumption patterns could be signs that indicate the filters need to be replaced. Some filters are reusable ones that can be washed, dried properly, and then reinserted into the unit. Routine cleaning of filters prevents the accumulation of dust on internal parts, such as evaporator coils. A regular filter replacement program helps provide suitable performance, avoid expensive repairs, and increase the lifetime of the equipment.
Schedule Regular Professional Maintenance
Routine air conditioning service provides thorough checkups, which can detect potential issues before they escalate into serious equipment breakdowns. Experienced technicians possess specialized tools and expertise to perform tasks; they examine the electrical connections and test the system controls to make sure they run properly and safely. They can clean inside parts, such as the evaporator coils, condenser coils, and drain pans; they are also able to lubricate fan motors and other moving parts to help prevent premature wear and tear.
Technicians inspect ducts to identify the presence of leaks, blockages, or damage that may affect the system’s efficiency; they adjust thermostats and check safety controls to confirm that they function properly. Cleaning condensate drains to prevent water damage and mold growth in and around the unit is sometimes performed during maintenance. These professional checks typically identify small issues that can be addressed immediately.
Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear
The condenser outside needs sufficient airflow to help it exhaust the heat present in the interior of your home to the outside. Shrubs, weeds, and grass might block air movements and surround the unit with heat, lowering efficiency. Debris, like leaves and grass clippings, sometimes builds up around and on the condenser coils, forming barriers. This accumulation of debris causes the system to labor harder to reach the desired indoor temperatures, which can cause energy wastage.
The dirt, pollen, and other materials accumulated on the condenser coils should be washed carefully, but avoid using high-pressure washers or strong chemicals, which may destroy the fragile aluminum fins on the coil surfaces. Cutting the surrounding vegetation and clearing off the overhanging branches helps prevent future pile-up of debris. You are able to avoid damage by fitting a protective covering over the unit in the winter months against ice and snow. Frequent cleaning and clearance maintenance can vastly increase the efficiency of heat transfer, and it can decrease the load on the whole cooling system.
Contact an Air Conditioning Service
Routine activities, such as replacing filters and cleaning debris, may improve system reliability. Preventive maintenance is often more efficient than reactive repairs, particularly in cases where big parts such as compressors or heat exchangers break. Take advantage of these maintenance practices now by calling an air conditioning service.
