You’ve probably experienced this one. Savannah is experiencing record heat and the air conditioner in your home starts blowing out warm air or stops running completely. Along with hundreds of other people in our city, you pick up the phone to call your HVAC specialist, as you and your family brave the heat. While not all A/C problems can be prevented, here are a few tips that can be used to lower the chance of this happening to you this summer.
Ensure Maximum Air Flow
To work properly, your air conditioner needs to pull air through the system, including recirculating air inside your home. If Air blockage or obstruction of any kind can end up translating to money out of pocket for you. To guarantee great air flow, make sure to keep clear the immediate area around the vents - indoors and outside. This includes trimming back vegetation and cleaning dirt away from vents.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
Controlling the consumption of your indoor energy use is simple with a programmable thermostat. Adjust the temperature of your home to run less when you are at work or school, and automatically increase to a desired temperature when you are actually in the home.
Also, program your thermostat for lengthier run-cycles. While this does not necessary prevent problems, it can help bring down the humidity in your Savannah area home. This can provide a more comfortable environment, plus keep mold spores from developing in your home.
Watch Out for Those Pests
Some bugs and pests are attracted to central air units, which can be damaging if they get inside the system. To keep ants and other pests away, use an eco-friendly pesticide around the foundation of the unit with a reasonably wide perimeter of 24 – 36 inches.
Stay Level
Nearly all outdoor A/C units rest on a concrete slab or other platform, allowing them a level base of operation. However, the weight of the unit and ground moisture can cause your unit’s platform to sag or sink, limiting the performance of the air conditioner. Keep an eye on your outdoor component to make sure that the base continues to stay level.
Of course, regular maintenance, such as lubrication and filter changes, are very important to keep your air conditioner functioning well. Make sure to schedule annual maintenance service before the summer starts to ensure your system is ready to face the hot days ahead. Keeping these tips in mind, you may be able to decrease the chance of several common A/C problems and have a stress-free and climate controlled home all summer.