You’ve probably experienced this one. A heat wave is covering the Kitchener area and the air conditioner in your home begins blowing out warm air or stops working completely. Along with hundreds of other people in our community, you grab 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 likeliness of this happening to you this summer.
Maximize Air Flow
For the A/C system to work correctly, you need to ensure the air is pulling through properly, including recirculating air from within your home. If this process is obstructed in any way, it can end up translating to money out of pocket for you. To assure you have the manufacturer suggested air flow, make sure to keep space around the vents - indoors and outside. This includes cutting 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. Program your air conditioner for warmer temperatures when the home is empty or at night when it cools down outside.
Also, program your thermostat for extended run-cycles. While this does not necessary prevent problems, it can help lower humidity in your Kitchener area home. This can provide a more comfortable environment, as well as keep mold spores from thriving in your home.
Watch Out for Those Pests
For some reason certain bugs and pests are attracted to air conditioning units, which can be harmful if they get inside the system. To keep ants and other pests away, use an eco-friendly pesticide around the exterior of the unit and check on it regularly throughout the summer.
Stay Level
The majority of outdoor A/C units are placed on a concrete slab or other platform, giving them a level base of operation. However, over time these can settle or sag, hindering the performance of the air conditioner. Check on your outdoor component to ensure that the base continues to stay level.
Naturally, regular maintenance, such as lubrication and filter changes, are very important to keep your air conditioner running smoothly. Try to schedule annual maintenance service before the summer starts to ensure your system is ready to face the hot days ahead. Following these suggestions, you may be able to avoid A/C problems and have a stress-free and climate controlled home all summer.