Flipping the Air Conditioner Switch

If you haven’t already, it’s time to start our air conditioners for the season.  Let’s look at some tips to getting it going, and keeping it running all Summer. 

 

General Clean-Up 

• - Most central AC units are outside, and we camouflage them with plants.  Carefully using trimmers, cut the plants back about two feet from the unit. Trim any branches that hang too close as well. You want the unit clear of air flow obstruction, so it can run efficiently. 
• - Turn off electricity to the unit, and use the hose and gentle spray nozzle to wash all debris and leaves that may have collected on the unit. 

• - Check the drain tube on the unit that it is clear of anything that could keep the dripping condensation from flowing freely and away from the house. Use a small piece of wire to clear out any gunky build-up on the inside. 
• - Test your AC before you need it by turning it on and allowing it to run for a few minutes.  If the air isn’t cooling, you should call your installer or an HVAC service person. 
• - If you’re not comfortable doing the minor cleaning yourself, most HVAC companies offer a service plan to check coolant levels, as well as clean your unit.  Call your installer to inquire about servicing your unit. 
• - Window air conditioners can use a sprucing up as well, and Apartment Therapy offers a three-step guide to keeping the unit running smoothly. 

 

Maintaining Your Cool 

• - The filter on the intake vent collects dust, dirt and allergens.  Changing it monthly isn’t completely necessary, but checking it is.  If it’s obviously dirty, replace it with a new one not only to keep allergies at bay, but to keep the AC unit from working too hard. 
• - A programmable or smart thermostat will save money on energy costs, as it will adjust the temperature according to the time of day, and when you are home or out. 
• - One mistake many people make is to close registers in rooms that aren’t used, thinking this will save money by not cooling them.  It’s best to keep them open, because your unit will be blowing air continuously, and blocking the air flow can cause leaks to develop in your ductwork. 
• - Airflow is important inside, so keeping interior doors slightly opened is better than closing them tight. 

• - We love natural light streaming into our homes, but if the hot Summer sun is shining directly into a room, it’s best to close the blinds to help maintain the temperature your thermostat is set on. 
• - Ceiling fans are a huge help in keeping us feeling cooler, so make sure the fans are turning in a counter-clockwise direction so that it gives a wind chill effect, but keep them off when you’re not in the room--it’s a waste of energy. 

 

If it’s time to upgrade or replace your old unit, do some research to decide what type of AC you’d like to have installed.  Ductless air conditioning is a technology that is becoming more popular and affordable and may be a good option for some. Whatever you use to condition the air in your home, all it takes is a little maintenance on your part to keep from losing your cool, figuratively and literally. 

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