5 Ways to Keep Your AC Running Strong

Are you worried about keeping your Oak Ridge, TN, AC system running strong through the end of a hot summer? There are a few ways to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC system, avoid damaged parts and make sure the system keeps your family comfortable all summer long.

Replace Your HVAC System Filters

Be sure to reduce the strain on your HVAC system. Dirty filters can become clogged to the point where it affects the quality of your airflow.

This results in a situation where your air conditioner system must work harder than it should. It’s during these times when parts might break, or belts will strain under the pressure. Replace your air filters once every 30 to 90 days to avoid costly AC system repairs.

Use Appliances at Optimum Times

Appliances produce heat when in operation. Try to avoid doing chores during the day when your appliances add to the overall heat of hot summer months.

Your dryer creates additional heat that escapes into your home’s air. The washer runs hot water and adds to your home’s temperature. Use these major appliances at night when possible to mitigate how hard your air conditioner system works.

Use the dishwasher in the evening because it also emits heat. Try turning it on right before you go to bed.

Discover the joys of grilling, so you aren’t operating your stove or oven as much during the summer. It’s possible to make plenty of meals during the hottest months of the year without using a hot stove. Operate the fan when you absolutely must use the stove, so hot air gets vented out of the kitchen.

Using a Programmable Thermostat Helps Your AC

Install a programmable thermostat so that your HVAC system works more efficiently. Keep your home’s temperature adjustments as regular as possible in order to avoid overworking the AC system. Consider using a smart thermostat to control the temperature whether you’re home, at work or on vacation.

Program the thermostat to keep your home’s temperature a few degrees higher when you’re away and then bring it back down to your desired temperature upon your return. You might choose to automatically increase the temperature slightly while sleeping to reduce the strain on your HVAC system.

Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Airflow

It’s possible to keep your air conditioner unit working more efficiently by combining its use with ceiling fans. The coolest areas in a home exist near vents. This means you must wait for the slow thermal transfer process to cool down your entire living space.

Ceilings fans force cool air to circulate into your home’s environment more quickly. An added benefit is that air circulated via ceiling fans helps to evaporate sweat faster. The result is a cooling effect on the skin.

You’ll discover that you can set the thermostat higher as your ceiling fans create this extra cooling effect. This practice keeps the HVAC system operating well throughout the entire summer and also lowers your power bill.

Maintain Your AC System

Get the HVAC system maintained professionally. All the moving parts get inspected and lubricated during a regular tune-up. Your technician performs the following tasks during a tune-up:

• Thermostat calibration
• Condenser coil cleaning
• Tightening of electrical parts
• Refrigerant level evaluation
• Blower belt inspection
• Blower motor evaluation

Getting an annual maintenance check is one of the best ways to keep your AC unit running strong all summer long. It’s highly unlikely to experience breakdowns after getting the system’s parts inspected, adjusted and fixed.

There’s no need to worry about whether your HVAC system will operate adequately until the end of a hot summer season. Use the above tips to keep your air conditioner unit running efficiently.

Has it been a long time since your HVAC system’s last tune-up? Cook’s Comfort Systems, Inc., is ready to help. Contact one of our friendly representatives so we can schedule your next maintenance appointment.

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