As homeowners we all make an honest effort to keep our central air conditioning units in top working order all summer long. Not only does the AC system provide us with more comfortable temperatures in our homes, but when working effectively, it also provides us with lower energy bills as well.
Keeping your central air conditioning system working effectively and efficiently is indeed a worthy goal for all homeowners which is why we think these important tips will help you in accomplishing that very task!
Check and Change Your Air Filters Routinely
This is by far the easiest tip for maintaining your central air conditioning system, but indeed the most important. Changing your air filters will prevent dirt and dust from building up and creating somewhat of a barrier that will ultimately restrict the flow of air intake back to your air conditioner. When airflow is reduced you will find yourself faced with major problems.
Minimized amount of cool air coming out of your registers is the first sign you may have dirty filters. You may also experience a frozen evaporator coil since the reduced airflow will cause the refrigerant to suffer a drop in temperature, which eventually causes the evaporator coils to freeze. If you notice that your air filter looks dirty then don’t delay. Change it. The professionals here at South Nashville Heating & Cooling highly suggest you change your air filters every 1 to 2 months or sooner during peak-use seasons, and especially if you notice even a thin layer of debris has accumulated on the filter.
Proper Care and Maintenance of Your Outdoor Cooling Unit
It is important to keep the outdoor unit (the condenser) free at all times of debris, branches, leaves, or overgrowth. You must also keep it uncovered in order for your AC system to run efficiently. The condenser has one primary function which is to take all the hot air out of your home and dump it all outside. If the unit is dirty or covered, the heat cannot escape as fast as needed. This can force your central air conditioning system to run longer to cool your home to the set temperature. When forced to run longer, we all know what that can do to the energy bills.
Properly Sealed Ductwork
The majority of homes have some type of duct leaks, which over time result in a good deal of money poorly spent cooling your crawlspace or attic. When the ductwork in your home has leaks it causes the central air conditioning system to work harder to cool down your home. If you notice that the ductwork in your home is suffering from leaks, we strongly suggest you do not attempt to mend these problems yourself. Rather, reach out to our certified and licensed technicians to take care of all your duct sealing needs. Since sealing involves a good deal of taping, adding additional insulation to the ducts, and refitting or completely resealing disconnected ducts, the expertise and know-how of qualified technicians and installers is an absolute must. Upgrading the duct sealing in your home will make your system more energy efficient and will certainly contribute to cooler, more comfortable temperatures in your home.
Perform Annual Maintenance and Repairs to Your System
In addition to giving focus to any potential repair needs you may have, whether an uncommon smell, strange sounds, or lack of cold air circulation, it is imperative that you perform routine maintenance on your central air conditioning system. The industry highly recommends having your HVAC equipment inspected regularly. This is typically twice a year, once in the Spring and again in the Fall. Modern equipment is far more technologically advanced, increasing the need for proper maintenance. Would you buy a new car and never change the oil or brake pads? If you choose not to maintain your equipment, you are going to have higher operating costs and more frequent break-downs, just like a vehicle. It may even void the equipment’s manufacturer warranty, as most of them require proper maintenance. Your heating and cooling system is a machine, and requires proper maintenance to ensure peak performance and longevity.
We hope you find this information useful. Here at South Nashville Heating & Cooling you are our #1 priority which is why we take such tremendous pride in providing top-rated services that will simply not be matched by any of our competitors. Whether you are in need of annual maintenance, system inspection, duct sealing, air filter changing or any other AC system repairs, you have come to the right place.
Give a shout out to our team today and schedule your system maintenance or repairs. We look forward to serving you and to providing your family with all the cool, comfortable temperatures you want and need in your home summer after summer, year after year!!
