House & Home Buzz

Most people appreciate the cool air offered by an air conditioner on a hot summer day. The necessity of an air conditioner quickly becomes apparent once the unit stops working. Fortunately, there are some ways that you can prevent an unexpected failure. Here are three maintenance tips to decrease the cost of running your air conditioner and increase its efficiency.

1. Change the Air Filter

The best way to prevent your air conditioner from breaking down is by changing the air filter on a regular basis. Most air conditioning units have filters that need to be replaced; however, some units have reusable filters. Check your air conditioning unit to find out what type of filter you have and how often it needs to be replaced. In addition to manufacturer’s recommendations, you may need to change your filter more often if you have pets, allergies, a larger home and/or poor outdoor air quality. A good rule of thumb is to check your air filter once a quarter to see if it looks dirty.

2. Clean Around the Unit

Over time, the evaporator coil on an air conditioning unit collects dirt and debris. Changing the filter regularly helps prevent some dirt, but falling leaves and dryer vents are also common sources of debris. It’s recommended to trim bushes and plants at least two feet away from the unit to ensure adequate air flow. You can also rake leaves and clean any rubble from around the coil.

3. Enroll in a Maintenance Program

Most homeowners lack the time and knowledge to maintain all the parts of an air conditioner system. Fortunately, there are air conditioning repair Conway AR professionals who offer maintenance programs. Enrolling in an HVAC maintenance program gives you the maintenance services you need without the hassle of remembering to do it yourself.

Homeowners should regularly change their air conditioner filter and clean around the unit. Additionally, it’s wise to enroll in a professional maintenance program to ensure greater efficiency and longer life of the unit.