10 Ways To Maintain Your AC Unit for Optimal Performance
It's no secret that weather in many parts of the country can be unbearable during the summer months. The last thing you want is for your air conditioning Canberra unit to go out when temperatures are on the rise. To keep your AC unit running properly, it's important to maintain it regularly. By following these 10 tips, you can help keep your AC unit in top condition so it will be there for you when you need it most.
1. Keep It Clean
One of the most important things you can do to maintain your AC unit is to keep it clean. Dust and dirt can build up over time and cause the unit to work less efficiently. Be sure to check and clean the filters monthly, and give the outside unit a good cleaning at least once or twice each year. This will help prevent dust and dirt from getting into the unit, which can cause it to work harder than necessary.
2. Stay on Top of Regular Maintenance
Another important thing you can do to maintain your AC unit is to keep up with regular maintenance. Most AC units have a recommended maintenance schedule provided by the manufacturer, so be sure to stick to this schedule as much as possible. Some routine things that should be included in your maintenance routine include changing filters, checking levels of refrigerant, changing lubricants and oiling moving parts, checking belts for wear and tear, making adjustments where needed, and more.
3. Find the Right Location for Your Unit
One thing that can impact the performance of your AC unit is its location. Be sure to place the unit in a shady spot, as this will help keep it cooler and prevent it from working too hard. Also, be sure there is good airflow around the unit so it can work efficiently.
4. Keep the Area Around Your Unit Clear
In addition to finding the right location for your AC unit, you also need to make sure the area around it is clear. This means keeping any debris, such as leaves or branches, away from the unit. It's also important to make sure there is nothing blocking the vents or fan so the unit can function properly.
5. Use a Programmable Thermostat
Another way to save on energy costs and keep your AC unit running efficiently is to use a programmable thermostat. This allows you to adjust the temperature at different times of the day so you aren't cooling an empty house. In addition, you can set the thermostat to automatically turn off when no one is home. This can significantly lower your monthly heating and cooling bill while still keeping your home comfortable.
6. Check the Condensate Line
If you notice water leaking from your AC unit or pooling around it, this could mean that there is something wrong with its condensate line. Be sure to check this line regularly and have it cleaned as needed to prevent any issues. Also, be sure to clear any debris that might be blocking the line so it can drain properly.
7. Don't Place Furniture or Other Items Near Your Unit
When placing furniture or other items in your home, be sure to keep them away from your AC unit. This can block airflow and prevent the unit from working properly. In addition, it can also lead to damage if something falls on the unit.
8. Keep the Doors and Windows Closed
Another way to help your AC unit run more efficiently is to keep doors and windows closed when it's running. This will prevent cool air from escaping and warm air from coming in, which can make the unit work harder than necessary. In addition, be sure to seal any cracks or gaps around doors and windows so there is no air leakage.
9. Use Ceiling Fans
In addition to keeping doors and windows closed, you can also use ceiling fans to help circulate air and keep your home cooler. This can take some of the strain off of your AC unit, which can help it last longer and run more efficiently.
10. Schedule Regular Maintenance
As mentioned earlier, one of the best things you can do for your AC unit is to keep up with regular maintenance. This will ensure that small problems are caught before they become big ones. In addition, it can also help extend the lifespan of your unit. Be sure to schedule maintenance at least once a year, and more often if needed.
