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 operating entirely. Along with hundreds of other people in our city, you grab the phone to call your HVAC specialist, and suffer with the heat until they arrive. While some A/C issues absolutely require a professional to service them, here are a few tips that can be used to lower the likeliness of this happening to you this summer.
Ensure Maximum Air Flow
For the A/C system to work correctly, you need to ensure the air is pulling through properly, including recirculating air inside your home. If the air flow is blocked in any way, it can cause problems in your unit. To assure you have the manufacturer suggested air flow, make sure to keep the area clear 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.
Another tip is to program your thermostat for extended run-cycles. While this does not necessary prevent problems, it can help reduce 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
Most 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, impacting 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 also 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 minimize A/C problems and have a stress-free and climate controlled home all summer.