When the temperature rises during the hot summer months you always rush inside into the air conditioning to cool off. Without this wonderful appliance life would not be nearly as good. But have you ever stopped to think that the old AC unit might need a break from time to time? Giving your unit a break occasionally can mean the difference between it running smoothly or you having to pay for an air conditioner repair.
Outside Tips
There are several things you can do outside your home to help avoid an air conditioner repair. Here they are:
- Shade - Make sure you have shade on at least the south and west sides of the outside unit. The shade will reduce cooling costs and keep the air conditioner running under less stress during the hottest time of day.
- Air flow - The condenser needs to be shaded but not blocked. Clear anything away within 24" so the condenser will run efficiently. Make sure to clear any plant debris too.
Inside Tips
The inside of a home is where you can really save money. There are many things you can do to give your unit a break and potentially save on costly air conditioner repair. Some are listed below:
- Thermostat - Turn up the setting so your unit will get a break by running less. Turn the unit up to 78 degrees and see how it feels. You may need to adjust the thermostat a little, but find a setting you can live with. It may surprise you.
- Fans - Box fans and ceiling fans make you feel cooler, often by as much as 10 degrees. Make sure the blades are turning in the right direction. Feeling cooler will allow the thermostat setting to be raised some. If you have enough room consider a high-volume, low-speed (HVLS) fan.
- Program – If you don’t have one already, install a programmable thermostat. This device will let you do things like raise the temperature a few degrees at night and when you’re gone during the day. It will lower the temperature a few degrees when you’re home and awake. It can help minimize your need for an air conditioner repair company because it helps your unit run more efficiently.
- Windows - Keep drapes and blinds closed. Windows can let a lot of light in and heat up a room quickly. Drapes are the better option and very dark drapes can keep a room significantly cooler.
- Attic - You know how hot your attic can get. The temperature up there can reach way over 100 degrees. Make sure your attic is insulated and properly ventilated. This will keep the super-heated air from reaching living spaces. Duct work should have proper insulation also.
- Air leaks - Check your home for air leaks, mainly around windows and doors and seal them with caulking and weather stripping. Precious cold air is lost if you have leaks. An added bonus to stopping air leaks is that in winter cold air will be kept out.
- Heat - Avoid generating heat. Ovens can raise the temperature dramatically. Air dry dishes and even clothes. Switch from incandescent light bulbs to ones that run much cooler, like CFL and LED bulbs.
- Audit - An energy audit will pinpoint problem areas in your home. These issues can be addressed after you know what they are. Having the audit done will insure you don't miss any concerns.
It's hot and your air conditioner has to work much harder. Just like a person after a workout it needs a break. If your unit has to work too hard it will eventually need an expensive air conditioner repair.
Using a few simple tips and tricks can give your AC unit an occasional break which will keep it running smoothly. Give it a break and it may not break!
If you would like a professional air repair technician in Chico to tune up your AC unit just schedule a visit by clicking below:
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