How to Maintain Your AC For Longer Service Life
Keeping a comfortable temperature inside your home is the key to an enjoyable summer. Unfortunately, HVAC systems can cause more stress than comfort if they are not maintained properly. Not only does a poorly maintained system mean you will need to replace it sooner than expected, but it may also require sudden, expensive repairs.
At Innovation Home Services, we offer a wide range of high-quality air conditioning units from leading brands in South Florida. Not only do we supply our customers with the equipment they need to support many years of functionality, but we are also committed to providing useful information that will help property owners maintain their equipment, therefore extending its service life.
If you rely on an air conditioner to keep your residential or commercial space at an optimal temperature, the best way to avoid a premature replacement is to seek out advice from the experts. Below we have provided a few tips on how to get as many years as possible out of your HVAC unit.
Position Your Equipment Strategically
Many property owners do not realize that outdoor HVAC equipment is at serious risk of becoming damaged from the elements or overheating due to excessive output. For these reasons, it is important to be strategic when installing your equipment. System components on the exterior of your building should be placed in the shade, where they can do their job without faltering from the heat. This will enable your air conditioner to safely run at full capacity, even on the hottest days of summer when you rely on it the most.
Additionally, your equipment should be sheltered from harsh weather conditions during the winter and fall when you no longer rely on a cooling system. A durable cover such as a tarp will help keep snow, ice, fallen leaves and other debris away from your equipment, preventing damages.
Change Your Filter On a Regular Basis
An air conditioner installation is not only useful for introducing cool air into your space, but you should also be able to trust that the air coming out of your unit is clean. HVAC systems work by cooling and filtering out any debris in the air for optimal health and comfort. The filter inside your system does however, need to be changed manually on a regular basis to prevent excessive buildup of debris such as dust and allergens. If your AC filter is full of these particles, it will eventually start blowing them back into the interior of your building. Furthermore, clogging can result in damages within your equipment, jeopardizing the longevity of the unit. Changing your filter is a simple, inexpensive task that is well worth doing on a regular basis.
Hire Regular Maintenance Services
Like any heavy duty piece of equipment, there are certain elements of maintaining an HVAC system that should strictly be handled by a professional. An expert will be able to flag any vulnerabilities within your equipment, and use preventative techniques to ensure longevity and avoid expensive repairs down the line. By hiring an HVAC technician to inspect your equipment and provide any necessary maintenance at least once per year, your air conditioner will remain in top condition for a much longer period than otherwise possible.
Keep Your Ducts Clean
Unlike the filter inside your air conditioner, the ducts that circulate air from room to room can not simply be replaced every time they accumulate dust and debris. Rather, it is the responsibility of the property owner to have their ducts cleaned on a regular basis. This will ensure that cool air is distributed evenly between all rooms. If there is an extreme buildup of debris in your ducts, your air conditioner will need to work harder to push cool air through these channels. Additionally, the air that comes out of your system will be contaminated with unwanted particles. Ultimately, this reduced functionality will undoubtedly result in damages and a premature replacement of your HVAC system. Therefore, it is advisable to schedule periodic duct cleaning services.
Look For Signs of Damage
One of the best ways that you can extend the lifespan of any piece of equipment is by addressing problems as soon as they arise. Taking care of issues right away will prevent them from worsening or causing your HVAC system to stop working altogether. The challenge then, is for property owners to understand the signs of a malfunctioning system. One of the main culprits of damage is a leak. If you notice water dripping from one or more parts of your system, it is essential to call a technician for repairs as soon as possible. Another sign to look out for is reduced efficiency. If your air conditioner is not working to the standard that it did when first installed, there is likely a problem that needs to be addressed.
Are you looking for a new HVAC system that will last you for decades? Innovation Home Services is your top source for well-made products that guarantee top performance. Contact us today to request a service.