In the current climate, are you going to risk the health of friends, family, and colleagues with unclean air? An unmaintained AC unit can provide a lot of problems, the biggest of which is potential pollutants and allergens in your property. You need to get it cleaned, which means regular maintenance. 

There are several mistakes your AC can make. Below, we discuss 5 mistakes and how to fix them. 

1. Not Changing the Air Filter

The biggest AC mistake that can be made is not changing the air filter. As your system runs, the filters become clogged with dirt, dust, and other particles. If your unit is outside, then you can also end up with leaves and foliage in your filters. 

For your HVAC system to produce clean air then you need to have the filters replaced. This replacement will need to occur every few months, even more, if you live in a dusty, arid climate. It will also depend on the season. 

The most you can leave a filter is six months. By this time, the filter will be so clogged it will stop working and cause AC problems. 

Dirty filters also cause the unit to use more power as it works overtime. In fact, it is estimated that bad filters can add 5% to 15% to your energy bill. It can also shorten the lifespan of your unit and lead to serious mechanical faults that will require expensive maintenance. 

You may have a ductless split AC unit. In this instance, filters only require cleaning and do not need replacement. You can wipe the filter down with a cloth. 

2. Not Utilizing the Thermostat Correctly

Correct use of the thermostat can assist your AC in a number of ways. Make sure you have a thermostat that is programmable. While many people may remember to adjust the temperature when we leave the house, for the rest of use, it is easier to set the dial and let it go.

When you are at work or away, the house does not need to be as cool. The AC can be off and your thermostat can return the house to a normal temperature on your return. You can even use thermostats linked to apps on your mobile to turn control the thermostat remotely, saving money on your energy bills. 

It is also a common misconception that setting your AC to extreme temperatures can cool your house quicker. Unfortunately, putting the air conditioner to the lowest possible temperature on full does not cool large areas fast, and will waste energy.

Instead, you should lower your AC use over a period of a few weeks. The human body can adapt to temperatures very quickly, so by raising your AC temperature by a few degrees every couple of days, your tolerance will change with it. This can save you a lot of money in wasted energy bills. 

3. Ignoring Drainage

Your AC system needs to have an outlet for condensation. This is usually through a pipe which will deposit water outside the house or into a container. If the drainage pipe is blocked, then you can expect to see problems with moisture occurring around your property.

Clogged and overflowing drains that the pipe feeds into can cause bad smells, dampness, and unsightly discoloration on walls. You should check drains regularly, keeping the drain line and condensation pipes clean.

4.Overworking Your AC

There are a number of tactics you can employ to stop your AC from being overworked. Overworking the AC can result in a lower life for the unit and increased energy consumption. This is more expenditure, which you do not want. 

One thing you can do is to employ fans in your house. A ceiling fan or simple standing fans will use very little power and will push the cold air around your home. You can use them to direct air into rooms away from the units, cooling the whole house. 

Another way to stop your AC overworking is to ensure you are not cooling empty rooms. Only open the AC vents in rooms that people are occupying. Otherwise, you are spending energy on chilling a room that is costing money. 

5. You Are Not Having Regular Services

You could clean your AC yourself, and you will find lots of online instructions on how to do this. However, it is not an easy task, especially if you do not have the right tools. You also want it done properly, and this can sometimes require the assistance of a professional. 

Cleaning fins and coils are an essential part of AC maintenance, and to do it requires some specialist tools. The purpose of them is to absorb and release heat, but dirt and dust can reduce their efficiency. You should also check the position of your coils after adverse weather, or get a professional to do this for you. 

One factor you definitely need a professional for is checking the refrigerant compound in your system. It is essential for your AC to run, though over time this gas can escape in small amounts. This will result in reduced efficiency for your AC unit. 

Don’t Put It Off

You may be tempted to put your AC maintenance off until next month or year, but this will cost money in the long run. Regular cleaning and filter changes do not have to cost as much as you think.

If your AC is due a scheduled clean, is underperforming, or making odd noises, then you need help. Our experienced staff can keep you cool this summer with a range of maintenance options. Contact Cliffs AC for a professional quote on AC repair today.