Your central air system is a complicated machine comprised of wires, motors, a blower, refrigerant line, and other moving parts. It’s a tough appliance but only takes something minor, say a clogged filter or an obstructed condenser unit, to throw the whole system out of whack.
The following are three common AC mistakes that you will want to avoid.
Not Replacing the AC Filters
Clogged filters strain the AC system and dirt may get into the evaporator coil and cause it to freeze over. The result will be lukewarm air and higher energy bills.
Replace your filter regularly. Pleated filters should be replaced every 60 to 90 days, but if you own pets or live in a smoggy area, change them out more frequently. Disposable fiberglass filters, the cheapest kind, need replacing every 30 days.
Related: Chill Out! Tips to Keep You Cool This Summer
Not Programming the Thermostat
Assuming that your thermostat is programmable, take advantage of this ability to create a customized cooling schedule around your daily routine. This is a simple way to cut your heating and cooling costs by as much as 10 percent a year. During summer, program the thermostat to raise the temperature while you’re away or sleeping and adjust to a lower temperature a short time before you wake or return home.
There’s a myth that lowering the thermostat well below one’s comfort level will help cool a home faster. In reality, thermostats don’t control AC speed, so setting them to a low temperature only causes the system to run longer, wasting energy as a consequence.
Neglecting AC Maintenance
It’s not enough to replace the filters now and then -- the entire AC system needs at least annual maintenance. After all, the evaporator coil may become dirty, the fan motor may need lubrication, and wiring may become old and loose. The thermostat may be out of calibration and inaccurately read the indoor temperature. Milton Frank Plumbing & Cooling has been providing tune-ups and other AC services since 1984. Call us today for reliable service at a convenient time at (281) 645-5905.