Prevent A/C Trouble with These Tips

March 12, 2015

You’ve probably experienced this one. A heat wave is covering the Clearwater area and the air conditioner in your home is blowing out warm air or stops operating completely. Along with hundreds of other people in our city, you reach for the phone to call your HVAC specialist, and suffer with the heat until they arrive. While not all A/C problems can be prevented, here are a few tips that can be used to reduce the chance of this happening to you this summer.

Maximize Air Flow

For the A/C system to work correctly, you need to ensure the air is pulling through properly, including recirculating air from within your home. If Air blockage or obstruction of any kind can result in trouble and repair costs. To assure you have the manufacturer suggested air flow, make sure to keep clear the immediate area around the vents - indoors and outside. This includes cutting back vegetation and cleaning dirt away from vents.

Use a Programmable Thermostat

Controlling the consumption of your indoor energy use is simple with a programmable thermostat. Set your thermostat to be on only when you are actually in your home.

In addition, program your thermostat for lengthier run-cycles. While this does not necessary prevent problems, it can help reduce humidity in your Clearwater area home. This can offer a more comfortable environment, plus keep mold spores from thriving in your home.

Get Rid of Any Pests

Many bugs and pests are drawn to A/C units, which can be harmful if they get inside the system. To keep ants and other pests away, use an eco-friendly pesticide around the exterior of the unit to keep them from “bugging” your air conditioner.

Stay Level

Nearly all outdoor A/C units rest on a concrete slab or other platform, permitting them a level base of operation. However, the weight of the unit and ground moisture can cause your unit’s platform to sag or sink, impacting the performance of the air conditioner. Keep an eye on your outdoor component to confirm that the base continues to stay level.

Of course, regular maintenance, such as lubrication and filter changes, are also important to keep your air conditioner operating as it should. Call 727-219-2471 to schedule system maintenance review before the summer starts to ensure your system is ready to face the hot days ahead. Following these suggestions, you may be able to avoid A/C problems and have a stress-free and climate controlled home all summer.