Top 10 Tips for Maintaining Your AC System

Why AC Maintenance is Important

Maintaining your air conditioning system is crucial for ensuring its efficiency, longevity, and reliability. At our Brevard County air conditioning company, we understand the importance of keeping your AC in top shape, especially with the hot and humid climate we experience. Regular maintenance helps prevent costly repairs, improves energy efficiency, and ensures your home stays comfortable year-round.

Regularly Clean or Replace Filters

• Locate the filter in your AC unit.
• Determine if it needs cleaning or replacement.
• Clean with water or replace with a new filter.
• Install the filter back properly.

It’s generally recommended to check your filters every month and replace them at least every three months, or more frequently if you have pets or allergies. Clean filters not only improve your AC’s performance but also enhance the indoor air quality, making your home healthier for you and your family.

Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance

Benefits of Professional Maintenance

Professional maintenance is key to identifying and fixing issues before they become major problems. As an AC company in Brevard County, we offer comprehensive maintenance services to ensure your system runs efficiently. The benefits of professional maintenance include:

• Identifying potential issues early.
• Ensuring the system is running efficiently.
• Providing thorough cleaning and inspection.

During a professional maintenance visit, a technician will check all components of your AC system, including the refrigerant levels, electrical connections, and overall system performance. This proactive approach can help extend the life of your AC unit and keep it running smoothly even during the hottest days of the year.

Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean and Clear

• Remove debris and leaves regularly.
• Ensure there’s at least 2 feet of clearance around the unit.
• Hose down the unit to remove dirt.

A clean outdoor unit helps your AC system work more efficiently and prevents overheating. Additionally, it reduces the risk of mechanical failures caused by accumulated debris. Regularly checking the outdoor unit can save you from unexpected breakdowns and HVAC repairs.

Check and Seal Ductwork

Leaky ducts can lead to a significant loss of cooled air and reduced efficiency. It’s essential to check and seal your ductwork to prevent air leaks, improve system efficiency, and reduce energy costs. Sealing ducts can be done with mastic sealant or metal tape, ensuring that all joints and connections are properly sealed.

Use a Programmable Thermostat

• Better control over home temperature.
• Reduces energy usage when not home.
• Increases comfort levels.

By setting a schedule that aligns with your daily routine, a programmable thermostat can automatically adjust the temperature when you’re away or asleep, ensuring that your home is comfortable when you need it and saving energy when you don’t. This simple upgrade can lead to significant energy savings over time.

Ensure Proper Insulation

Proper insulation helps maintain the desired temperature in your home and reduces the strain on your AC system. Insulating your attic and walls, sealing gaps around windows and doors, and using thermal curtains are effective ways to ensure proper insulation.

Keep Vents Unblocked

• Ensures proper airflow.
• Prevents system strain.
• Maintains even cooling throughout the home.

Consistent airflow is crucial for efficient cooling. Regularly check that all vents and registers are clear of obstructions, and consider using vent deflectors to direct airflow where it’s needed most. This helps maintain a balanced temperature throughout your home and improves overall comfort.

Check the Thermostat’s Location

The placement of your thermostat can affect its accuracy. Ensure your thermostat is away from direct sunlight, vents, or windows, and is centrally located for accurate readings.

Monitor Refrigerant Levels

• AC blowing warm air.
• Hissing or bubbling noise.
• Ice buildup on the unit.

If you notice these signs, it’s essential to contact a professional for a refrigerant check. Low refrigerant levels usually indicate a leak, which needs to be repaired by a qualified technician. Regular monitoring and timely maintenance can prevent extensive damage and ensure your system operates efficiently.

Listen for Unusual Noises

Common Noises and Their Meanings

• Banging or clanking: possible loose parts.
• Hissing: potential refrigerant leak.
• Buzzing: electrical issues.

Addressing these noises promptly can prevent further damage. If you hear any unusual sounds, turn off your system and contact a professional for an inspection. Early detection of issues can save you from more significant repairs and ensure your system runs smoothly.

Maintaining your air conditioning system with these tips will keep it running efficiently and effectively throughout the year. As your trusted Melbourne, FL HVAC experts, we’re here to help you with all your AC needs. Contact us today to schedule a maintenance appointment and keep your home comfortable year-round.

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