You’ve probably experienced this one. A heat wave is covering the Elkhart area and the air conditioner in your home starts blowing out warm air or stops operating altogether. Along with hundreds of other people in our community, you grab the phone to call your HVAC specialist, and suffer with the heat until they arrive. Although some A/C problems will require a professional technician, here are a few tips that can be used to minimize the chance of this happening to you this summer.
Ensure Maximum Air Flow
To work properly, your air conditioner needs to pull air through the system, including recirculating air throughout the rooms of your home. If the air flow is blocked in any way, it can cause problems in your unit. To ensure your air conditioner has the air flow it needs, 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. Adjust the temperature of your home to run less when you are at work or school, and automatically increase to a desired temperature when you are actually in the home.
In addition, program your thermostat for extended run-cycles. We are not suggesting that this will prevent problems, it can help bring down the humidity in your Elkhart area home. This can provide a more comfortable environment, as well as keep mold spores from developing in your home.
Keep Pests at Bay
Some bugs and pests are attracted to central air 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 with a reasonably wide perimeter of 24 – 36 inches.
Stay Level
Nearly all outdoor A/C units are placed on a concrete slab or other platform, permitting 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, impacting the performance of the air conditioner. Keep an eye on your outdoor component to confirm 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 a check up before the summer starts to ensure your system is ready to face the hot days ahead. By following these simple tips, you may be able to avoid A/C problems and have a stress-free and climate controlled home all summer.