Air conditioning units are good for keeping your home comfortable, improving indoor air quality, and reducing high humidity. Proper care of an AC unit keeps it running smoothly for longer. At Mainstream Heating and Cooling, we offer residential and commercial HVAC contractor services to keep your system functioning properly. Here are some tips for getting the best performance from your AC unit:
Change Air Filters
Air filters capture dust, dirt, pet hair, and allergens to prevent them from entering the home. If they enter an HVAC system, these contaminants can stress the unit and make it work harder. Change your filters regularly to maintain smooth airflow. Review your appliance’s manufacturer guidelines and research which air filters have a sufficient Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating to meet your needs. This rating refers to the filtration efficiency, with a higher number typically indicating enhanced filtration capability.
Seal Leaks
Even brand-new homes can have leaks around windows and doors. Proper insulation keeps cool air inside and reduces the workload on your HVAC system. An HVAC contractor can conduct a blower door test to determine how much air is escaping your home. The resulting diagnostic information pinpoints air leakage, helping you decide where to improve the sealing or insulation.
Close Curtains and Blinds
Keep your windows and blinds closed during the hottest part of the day to prevent the sun from excessively heating the home. This simple act also keeps cool air inside, reducing the time your system runs. Blackout blinds or shades are particularly effective at keeping the sun out and reflecting heat.
Improve Airflow
Air conditioners need free-flowing air to work efficiently. Keep your inside air vents and registers clear by moving any furniture that may be blocking them. For the condenser unit located outside, remove any obstructing plants or surrounding debris. If you notice a drop in airflow despite taking these measures, it could be from a broken motor, loose fan belt, or clog. Mainstream Heating and Cooling delivers a full range of air conditioner repair services to address airflow concerns.
Choose the Right Temperature
Setting your thermostat to excessively high or low temperatures can be hard on your air conditioner. Keep your home at a slightly higher temperature to reduce energy consumption and lessen the burden on your air conditioning. A programmable thermostat lets you create a schedule so the temperature automatically adjusts when you’re not home, maximizing efficiency and minimizing unnecessary AC cycling.
Use Energy-efficient Practices
Measures implemented to reduce energy consumption in your home can also help reduce the strain on your HVAC system. Turn off appliances and lights when not in use, and try to cook or use heat-producing appliances during the cooler parts of the day. Installing energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs can reduce energy use even further. Mainstream Heating and Cooling offers an energy-efficient service program to tune up your appliances and keep them running optimally.
Find an HVAC Contractor
Keeping your HVAC system tuned and clean helps it run efficiently and can extend its lifetime. Regardless of your unit’s brand, Mainstream Heating and Cooling will service it. We are a family-owned HVAC contractor business providing reliable installations, diagnoses, and repairs. Contact us today to learn more about our AC services.