Summer might seem like it’s a long time off away. But before you blink, you’ll be switching from heating to cooling. Soon enough your air conditioner is running around the clock to maintain comfortable temperatures. It’s smart to be ready for the increased usage before temperatures really start to climb.
Becht/Givens Service Experts and our team of Experts can help. We’ve designed our detailed air conditioning memberships to maximize your system’s energy efficiency and trustworthiness. Our professional skill goes a long way, but there are many other tasks you can do to protect your air conditioner. Here are four of the top ways you can prepare for air conditioning season.
1. Clean Your Air Conditioner
Don’t worry, you won’t have to dismantle your system and clean every part. Our Experts do this during your yearly air conditioning maintenance appointment.
But cleaning the surroundings around your air conditioner will go a long way also. We advise:
- Clearing twigs, leaves and grass clippings from the outside of your air conditioner.
- Keeping neighboring grass and plants cut back.
- Maintaining no less than 1 foot of free area on all sides around your air conditioner.
If your air conditioner’s fins get clogged with dirt or yard refuse, this can impact performance and comfort. Your air conditioner will have to run longer to provide the same level of cool air. In severe cases, it might stop working altogether and need air conditioning repair.
Your comfort and satisfaction matter to us, so we want to minimize the need for repairs in the first place. A well-maintained air conditioner typically operates more efficiently, is less likely to malfunction and typically lasts longer.
2. Replace Your Air Filter
Regularly replacing your air filter is important for your air conditioner’s health. During a tune-up visit, our specialists examine filters and put in new ones if needed. Installing a new filter is fast and easy. You can (and should) do it on your own when possible!
How often you need to install a new filter depends on:
- The type of filter you use.
- If someone in your household has asthma, allergies or other respiratory problems.
- If you have pets.
Basic flat filters normally last for 30–60 days. Thicker pleated filters can last up to 90 days. If you’re unsure if your filter requires replacement, take it out, and tilt it toward the light. Put in a new one if you can’t see light through it.
Filters catch dust, pollen and other contaminants from your residence’s air, keeping airflow healthy. Disregarding it will impact your house’s indoor air quality and your air conditioner’s efficiency.
Sometimes a blocked filter can even damage your system or cause it to break down. Often changing it will keep the inside of your air conditioner cleaner and airflow more balanced.
If someone in your home is dealing with allergies, asthma or other respiratory problems, check with our Experts about how a HEPA filter can lessen symptoms.
3. Test Your Thermostat and Smoke Detectors
Now is a great time to check other crucial parts of your air conditioner and other safety systems.
If you rely on a programmable thermostat, make sure that it’s running correctly. If the batteries are getting low, replace them.
For added control and convenience, think about getting a smart thermostat. They make saving energy easier. And select models can even alert you if there’s a problem with your air conditioner or if your air filter needs replacing.
Although they’re not part of your air conditioning system, now is a great time to test the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Confirming they’re still good gives peace of mind and an additional layer of protection.
4. Keep Heat Outside
One of the smartest ways to boost energy-efficient cooling is to minimize the amount of exterior heat coming into your home. Using good window treatments like blackout curtains, honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, can block the sun from influencing your home’s temperatures.
Here are several other ways to keep your house chilly without turning down the thermostat:
- Use ceiling fans when you’re in the room.
- Turn on your bathroom fan to remove heat and humidity when you shower.
- Keep air vents unobstructed to ensure ample airflow.
- Use caulk and weatherstripping to seal your doors and windows.
Trust Becht/Givens Service Experts for Experienced Air Conditioning Maintenance
Our guide will help your air conditioner run smoother this summer. But the smartest way you can boost efficiency is with air conditioning maintenance. Some benefits of this service include:
- Stress-free cooling.
- Possibly cheaper cooling costs.
- Likely increasing your air conditioner’s life expectancy.
- Keeping your valuable manufacturer’s warranty ongoing.
Make sure your air conditioning is prepared for this summer! Get in touch with the heating and cooling Experts at Becht/Givens Service Experts today! Call us at 502-785-8230 to request your maintenance appointment or to learn more about our HVAC membership plans.