With summer temperatures on the rise over the years, your air conditioner (AC) system has to work harder during the season. Research shows Americans now spend 90% of their time indoors which forces the AC system to work overtime to keep indoor spaces cool.
With the extra strain on the air conditioning system, there’s a risk of damage to some components. The exertion increases energy consumption and decreases the longevity of the AC unit. Breakdowns require repairs which increases the cost of home maintenance.
Tips to Reduce Strain on Your AC System
This post explores different ways to reduce the stress on your AC system while still ensuring it works effectively.
Replace the Air Filters
Air filters are crucial for the optimal function of your home’s air conditioner. With time, air filters collect dirt, dust and other particles which reduce its efficiency. With dirty filters, the unit works overtime and spends more electricity to keep your home cool. Replacement of air filters regularly increases the lifespan of the AC unit, reduces electricity consumption, and keeps your home cool in the hottest months.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
The thermostat is an often overlooked component of the AC, yet it plays a critical role in the system’s function. A programmable thermostat allows you to set temperatures higher when there’s no one around. Every time when you’re enjoying the summer sun outside, give the AC system a break by allowing the temperatures to go up.
Insulate Your Home
Heat gain and heat loss through windows accounts for 25%–30% of home heating and cooling electricity consumption. You have many areas across your home which allow heat into your home in summer, and this puts a strain on the AC unit.
Insulation across the house can reduce the work the AC unit does to make your home cooler. Consider a home improvement project to insulate your windows, doors, ceilings, walls, garage, attic, basement, and other areas which might allow the heat from outside. An airtight home allows less heat, and your AC doesn’t have to work extra hard to keep your family cool in summer.
Complement the AC Unit
If the entire home relies on the air conditioner system to stay cool in summer, there’s a risk of malfunction because of the strain. Consider adding a ceiling fan, which complements the AC system. The idea is to allow your AC to breathe, which saves electricity costs and reduces the system’s risk of failure.
Use A Professional AC Service
Regular maintenance of your AC system helps identify any developing problems and resolves them early. Your HVAC contractor can clean the filters and recommend any other maintenance ideas to keep the system running optimally in the hottest summer months.
If you notice any noises from your AC unit or discover it doesn’t cool your home well, call your contractor for professional inspection and troubleshooting.
Wrapping Up
As you enjoy summer, beware of your AC system’s risk because of the strain and check on the unit’s electricity consumption. Apply these tips to ensure your AC works optimally in the summer heat.
Interested in seasonal maintenance for your HVAC system? You can find out more about the Seasonal FACT Check that includes our custom FACT Check Report by clicking HERE.