Boosting the lifespan of your AC is a great way to get your money’s worth and keep money in your pocket. It’s also a good way to ensure your Auburn, AL home remains comfortable, especially during the summer months. Here are six ways you can boost your AC’s lifespan.
1. Proper Installation
Most homeowners don’t think about the lifespan of their AC systems when they get a new one. However, the installation process plays an essential role in how long your AC lasts and ensures adequate airflow and ductwork. Leaking or incorrectly installed ductwork can reduce your AC’s performance and increase your energy bills.
2. Regular Maintenance
Creating a standard maintenance routine for AC systems is the best way to ensure it lasts many years. It would be best if you had someone inspect your AC during spring, before the hotter months arrive. Between tune-ups, be sure to clear debris away from the outdoor unit regularly, as this helps head off a lot of potential issues.
Regular maintenance is one of the best ways to catch problems before they evolve into much bigger, more expensive ones. Regular AC maintenance can provide the following benefits:
- Improved energy efficiency
- Reduced energy consumption
- Improved indoor air quality
- Avoided costly repairs
- Prolonged system lifespan
- Consistent comfort
3. Replace the Air Filters
Replacing the air filter is an essential part of AC maintenance, just as clearing debris away is. The filter prevents debris from entering your system at the air intake area, where it can then pose problems for internal components. Changing it regularly means fewer particulates can get into your system.
The longevity of the air filter depends on different instances, such as the number of people that live in the home, if you have pets and other situations. Generally, the AC air filters should be replaced at least every three months.
Additionally, failure to change the air filters causes your AC to suffocate, making the unit work harder than it should to cool your home. Not cleaning the air filters also reduces the average lifespan of your air conditioner.
4. Decrease the AC System’s Workload
When your AC is strained, that means it’s working harder than it should to cool your home. Make use of other devices, such as ceiling fans, to help cool your home and maintain a specific temperature.
When you use your AC and ceiling fan simultaneously, you can better circulate the air throughout your home and use a higher temperature setting, helping you save money on your energy bill. You can also use reflective window film and thick curtains to block heat and reduce your AC’s workload.
5. Upgrade Your Insulation
Your home’s insulation plays a crucial role in the efficiency of your AC. Proper insulation slows the transfer of heat into and out of your home. Insulation can also prevent hot air from entering your home and cool air from escaping it.
Either way, poor insulation makes your home temperatures change more easily, making your system turn on and off more often and even potentially short cycle. (That’s when it stops a cycle before it’s actually finished.)
When your AC short cycles, it puts strain on the motor and compressor, decreasing the lifespan of the system and increasing the likelihood of expensive repairs and breakdowns. All types of insulation can help combat AC strain, but making sure your windows and doors are properly sealed will also help insulation do its job.
We’re ready to put our expertise and knowledge to work for you! We happily provide our services to Auburn, AL and the surrounding areas. Contact Senisgreen today to learn more about our HVAC or insulation services.
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