Of course, nobody wants to call a technician for AC repair, but sometimes it’s beyond your control. Your air conditioner is a complex piece of equipment, and there are a lot of things that can go wrong over the course of a year. Thankfully, there may be a way to keep repair problems under control.
In fact, there are several things you can do to reduce the chances of a major AC repair. While these tips might not guarantee your air conditioner won’t break, they can help to ensure your system remains running as smoothly as possible for longer.
Schedule Maintenance Every Year
Preventative maintenance is a service many people think could prove important for a heater, but not an air conditioner. Of course, with a gas heating system comes a potential safety risk, so you do want to have your heater inspected each year. But an annual inspection and tune-up isn’t just for safety, and the additional benefits make it an excellent investment for your air conditioner, too.
Technicians typically complete several tasks that include an overview of the system and some adjustments here and there. For example they might:
- Inspect connections to help prevent an unexpected shutdown due to wiring issues.
- Check refrigerant levels to prevent compressor damage and low cooling output.
- Clean the outside coil to keep the refrigeration process working efficiently.
- Add lubrication to a motor that’s in danger of wearing out.
All of this helps AC equipment run smoothly and prevents repair in the long run.
Keep the System Clean
The outside unit: Of course, the outside components of your air conditioner were designed to be outdoors, which makes them somewhat resistant to weather changes and harsh conditions. However, dirt and debris can still affect your AC system, coating the coil which needs cleaning from time to time (something we recommend leaving to a professional during annual maintenance). In addition, you should keep the unit clear of branches and other outside debris so heat can properly transfer outdoors.
The air filter: The air filter of your AC system is not only there to clean the air, but also to protect your air conditioning system. Unfortunately, a clogged filter can no longer do its job. Sure, it still blocks particulate, but it also blocks air from flowing in the first place, which can severely damage the AC. Change the air filter each month!
Use the Thermostat Wisely
Finally, be sure you’re using your thermostat properly so that it lives up to its full capabilities. It turns out that many people with a programmable thermostat don’t actually know how to work the programming settings, but a technician (or your manual) can help!
Here are our recommendations for setting your thermostat during the summer:
- Upgrade to a programmable thermostat or, better yet, a smart thermostat for better control over your AC throughout the year.
- Set the thermostat to about 78°, or the highest temperature everyone in the home can be comfortable with.
- Raise the temperature by 10° when you leave the home.
- Program the most efficient settings for your schedule into your thermostat, or update on a weekly basis, if your schedule tends to change.
Contact Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning for air conditioning services in Colorado Springs, CO.
