To keep your air conditioning running efficiently and smoothly, you should ensure that every part of it is fully functional. You can do this by conducting regular inspection and maintenance. Though a professional can do this thoroughly, there are simple steps homeowners can take to check the condition of their air conditioning.
This cooling system has a wide range of components and parts, including the filter, the wiring, and the thermostat. When taking a look at your AC, don’t forget to check these three out.
Filter
The filter is responsible for regulating the unit’s air flow. When this part collects too much dirt, dust, and particles that can cause allergies, the air conditioning will have to work harder to provide the appropriate air flow. This is not good as it could damage the system. Also, the air it emits will become dirtier and unhealthy, especially for people with asthma.
Given this, it’s necessary to clean or replace the unit’s air filter every month, especially during seasons when the unit is being used frequently. You can locate the filter behind the return air grille on a wall, inside the air handler’s or furnace’s blower compartment, or the on the bottom, top, or side of the furnace.
Wiring and Components
Wires should never be melted, blackened, or burned-looking. Electrical connections should always be tight, and the contractor switch shouldn’t have a hint of excessive pitting. Any signs of these should be addressed immediately to keep the problem from getting worse. You may have to replace the parts, but if you don’t know how to, call an expert in AC repair in Shreveport to get the job done for you.
Thermostat
Keeping the temperature right, the thermostat should always be in good working condition. If you’re still using a mechanical type, you may want to replace it with a programmable model so that you can set the temperature easier. This lets you set the temperature higher when no one’s using the unit and then take the temperature down 30 minutes before people arrive home. This way, the room will be comfortable already without the need for the unit to run all day.
Making sure that these major components work fine will help the unit run efficiently and last long. This helps you save money on repairs that you could have prevented through proper maintenance.
Sources:
Five Easy Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips
todayshomeowner.com
Maintaining Your Air Conditioner
energy.gov