It never fails. A heat wave is covering the Columbia area and the air conditioner in your home starts blowing out warm air or stops running completely. Along with hundreds of other people in our city, you reach for the phone to call your HVAC specialist, and wait out the heat until relief arrives. While not all A/C problems can be prevented, here are a few tips that can be used to decrease the chance 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 from within your home. If this process is obstructed in any way, it can result in trouble and repair costs. To ensure your air conditioner has the air flow it needs, make sure to keep the area clear around the vents - indoors and outside. This includes trimming back vegetation and cleaning dirt away from vents.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
Beyond helping reduce energy costs by regulating your home’s temperature, programmable thermostats can also help minimize impact on your system. Program your air conditioner for warmer temperatures when the home is empty or at night when it cools down outside.
In addition, program your thermostat for extended run-cycles. While this does not necessary prevent problems, it can help bring down the humidity in your Columbia area home. This can offer a more comfortable environment, in addition to keep mold spores from growing in your home.
Get Rid of Any Pests
Some bugs and pests are attracted to central air units, which can be damaging if they get inside the system. To keep ants and other pests away, use an eco-friendly pesticide around the base of the unit and check on it regularly throughout the summer.
Stay Level
Nearly all outdoor A/C units are positioned on a concrete slab or other platform, allowing them a level base of operation. However, just like a home’s foundation, your A/C’s platform can also sink or settle into the ground, limiting the performance of the air conditioner. Every now and then, look at 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 a check up before the summer starts to ensure your system is ready to face the hot days ahead. Keeping these tips in mind, you may be able to avoid A/C problems and have a stress-free and climate controlled home all summer.