Three Common Mistakes To Avoid With the AC
Most people like to start the year by setting goals that will help them in the coming year. For homeowners, these goals will likely pertain to their homes, including making improvements or lowering bills. People don't realize that their air conditioners present plenty of opportunities for improvement with little effort. Here are three ideas to help homeowners take better care of their air conditioners.
Forgetting To Replace the Air Filter
The first habit homeowners should focus on in the new year is regularly changing their air filters. Air filters help remove dust and toxins from indoor air, which can cause respiratory problems and allow grime to build up inside the HVAC system.
By removing the dust from the air before it circulates through the blower and ductwork, the filters help protect the cooling equipment. In most cases, air filter replacement should occur every three months. An easy way to remember this is to set a reminder on the first day of each season to change the air filters.
If the inside of the HVAC system is still getting dirty or if the air in the home is still dusty, more frequent changes may be better. In homes in dusty areas or with pets, air filters may need to be changed as often as monthly for the desired result.
By changing air filters as often as necessary, homeowners prevent damage to the system that may require expensive repairs. Likewise, air filter changes protect efficiency, so bills stay lower, especially in the summer heat.
Closing Air Vents
One of the biggest tasks of an HVAC contractor is designing a well-balanced heating and cooling system. Air circulation is carefully considered during this process, as contractors calculate the size of ductwork feeding the various rooms in the home.
If air filters are dirty or air vents are blocked or closed, air can’t effectively circulate around the home. This can lead to an uncomfortable home with inconsistent heating and cooling.
Instead, homeowners should aim to leave the vents open and unblocked to keep the system balanced, preventing poor circulation and stagnant pockets of air. Not only will this improve the comfort across the entire home, but it will also keep cooling bills lower.
Skipping Professional Maintenance
AC maintenance is a professional service offered by most HVAC professionals. Its goal is to maximize the air conditioner's efficiency and prevent mechanical problems that may require unexpected repairs.
Most companies offer this service as part of a membership program. This allows homeowners to pay a small monthly fee for the benefits of professional maintenance without incurring a single, larger expense.
When homeowners sign up for these programs, they notice drastic improvements in their ACs' performance and lower bills. Some of the things AC maintenance professionals do during a visit are:
- Inspect visible ductwork
- Test operation of the unit
- Verify delivery temperatures
- Clean and lubricate moving parts
- Check the thermostat
- Check the amperage of motors and electrical parts
About Mr. Air AC & Electrical
With an AC maintenance membership, Mr. Air AC & Electrical can help improve air conditioner performance and lower bills. Their technicians always answer the phone and arrive on time for service calls. Call today for AC services in Pompano Beach, FL.
