Top 10 Tips to Prevent Air Conditioning Problems

There’s absolutely nothing worse than dealing with a broken air conditioner in a heatwave. The earliest signs of an upcoming breakdown may be understated—unusual noises, odd smells or reduced cooling. Before you know it, these minor issues grow into full-blown malfunctions. However, with a touch of planning and regular maintenance, you can keep your air conditioner running properly. Here are 10 tips to protect against AC trouble this summer.

1. Replace the Air Filter Regularly

One basic yet effective tip is to examine the air filter every 30 days and replace it when it appears dirty, going no more than 90 days between filter changes. A clean filter encourages smooth airflow, elevates indoor air quality and improves air conditioning efficiency. An overused or dirty filter, on the other hand, makes your AC work more than it ought to, which might contribute to breakdowns.

2. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean and Unobstructed

The exterior AC unit needs sufficient space to intake and exhaust air effectively. On a regular basis check the area around the unit, removing loose debris like leaves, grass clippings or sticks. Then, prune all plants growing within 12 inches of the unit. These steps can avert AC problems and encourage optimal performance.

3. Check the Condensate Drain Pan

The AC doesn’t only cool the air—it also extracts extra humidity. This moisture is collected in the condensate drain pan and then moves down the drain line. These two things can become clogged over time, causing leaks and increasing the likelihood of water damage. Routinely look at the drain pan and line for leakage to avert these AC issues.

4. Listen for Strange Noises or Smells

Your air conditioner typically functions with a soft, consistent hum. If you hear unusual grinding, screeching or hissing, you can bet something’s wrong. Similarly, if you detect unusual electrical burning smells or musty odors, it’s time to take a closer look at your air conditioner. These issues can be a sign of several different AC problems, including motor damage or mold growth, and need to be addressed quickly.

5. Keep Your Vents Open

While closing vents in unused rooms may seem wise, doing so forms pressure imbalances and lowers system efficiency. To prevent cooling system problems, keep at least 80 percent of your return and supply vents open and clear of furniture, rugs and curtains.

6. Install a Programmable Thermostat

Programmable thermostats are intuitive devices that maximize your air conditioning system's operation and minimize problems. Once you program your preferred schedule, you can sit back and unwind while your thermostat does the heavy lifting. Smart models are even more sophisticated, allowing you to check and adjust your home’s temperature remotely or even control the settings with your voice.

7. Check Your Attic Insulation

Air conditioning efficiency doesn’t only depend on the unit’s mechanics. Proper insulation is also vital for maintaining a comfortable interior, preventing warm air from seeping in and cold air escaping. The attic is the easiest place to add insulation to an existing home, so peek inside the hatch to see if the floor is covered with a thick, even layer of insulation. If that's not the case, you may have to add more insulation to enjoy noticeable energy savings and prevent stressing your AC.

8. Avoid Heat-Generating Activities in the Afternoon

Operating the oven, stove or clothes dryer at the hottest time of the day considerably increases your AC unit’s workload. When feasible, cook and do laundry in the evening or early morning to minimize99 needless AC activity. When planning dinner in the summer, think about reheating leftovers in the microwave, eating cool meals like sandwiches and salads, or barbecuing outside on the backyard grill.

9. Run a Ceiling Fan

While a ceiling fan can’t replace an AC unit, it can definitely work in conjunction with it. Ceiling fans produce a wind chill effect that makes a room feel about 4 degrees cooler. This added comfort lets you set your thermostat to a higher temperature, limiting the workload on your air conditioning system and potentially preventing AC problems. Just remember to turn off the fan when you leave the room. The reason for this is because the wind chill effect cools people, but it doesn’t bring down the temperature in the room.

10. Schedule Annual AC Maintenance

Regular AC tune-ups are a proactive measure aimed at identifying and fixing small issues before they escalate into serious problems. A yearly check by a qualified HVAC technician prepares your air conditioner for summer, saving you from undesirable breakdowns and pricey repairs by ensuring your AC is working optimally.

Contact Becht/Givens Service Experts for Air Conditioner Service in Louisville

Now that you know the top tips to prevent air conditioner problems, you can follow these steps to keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long. Whether you need to schedule a routine tune-up or emergency air conditioning repair, Becht/Givens Service Experts has you covered. We are focused on providing thorough and efficient maintenance, repairs and installations to fulfill all your cooling needs. For reliable AC services in your area, call 502-785-8230 today to schedule an appointment with the Experts at Becht/Givens Service Experts.