As the weather heats up, you may find that your home AC is struggling to keep up. These simple tips from A-Plus Air will help keep down costs and ensure your home stays cool and comfortable, as well as keeping your HVAC unit in peak condition.
Check your home HVAC filter
The filter for your HVAC collects dust and other debris. Over time it can become clogged, forcing your air conditioner to work harder. If your HVAC has a reusable filter, this will need to be cleaned regularly. Most disposable filters should be changed once a month.
Clean and straighten cooling fins
The metal fins that disperse heat from your AC unit’s heat exchanger can become dirty and bent out of shape. Clean them regularly so that they can release heat more easily. If the fins become bent or twisted, you can straighten them with a tool called a fin comb.
Clean and inspect your ducting
If ducting is clogged with dirt or debris, it can impair air flow and make your HVAC less efficient. The same thing can happen if the ducting is kinked or has something pressing against it. Tears and lose connectors allow cool air to spill away, wasting energy and making your home less comfortable. It’s a good idea to arrange for professional cleaning at least once a year.
Remove obstructions (indoors and out)
Make sure that the vents where cool air is blown into your home are not obstructed by dirt or by objects positioned in front of them. The same goes for the part of your AC unit that’s outside. Ensure that plants and shrubs don’t block your unit and that it’s not obstructed by dead leaves and other debris.
Minimize leaks and heat sources
Your AC can do its job more efficiently if you ensure that cooled air can’t leak out and hot air from outside can’t leak in. Keep doors, and windows closed and make sure that there are no gaps or cracks. Turn off appliances that produce heat or use them during the cooler part of the day. Your windows can also raise the temperature in your home significantly. Awnings, window shades, and sun-blocking treatments reduce this effect.
Maximize air circulation
To get the full benefit from your AC, you need good air circulation within the spaces you’re trying to cool. For small spaces, a simple floor or desk fan can really help. For larger rooms, though, it’s better to fit a ceiling fan. Make sure it’s blowing in the right direction; in the summer, this means your fan should be turning counter-clockwise and blowing air straight down.
Use a programmable home thermostat
You only need your AC running when someone’s home. A programmable thermostat means you can determine exactly when your unit turns off and on.
These tips can help keep you cooler, save on your energy bills, and prolong the useful life of your HVAC unit. To ensure the best performance all year round, have your HVAC unit inspected by our trained professionals at A-Plus Air at least once per year.
aplusair.ca Heating & Air Conditioning wants to help you make informed decisions when it comes to the comfort and enjoyment of your home. With expert staff and second-to-none service, they can provide all your residential and commercial heating and cooling solutions. For more information, visit www.aplusair.ca.