How to Take Care of Your Air Conditioner & Extend Its Life Expectancy

Written by DC Air on November 1, 2021

Most homeowners take their air conditioners for granted, assuming they’ll continue to cool their homes with the flick of a switch. However, when it comes to your HVAC system, you want to do everything possible to help extend its life expectancy. Taking care of your air conditioner takes a bit of attention, but it’s well worth the effort. Here are tips on how to take care of your air conditioner to extend its life expectancy. 

Don’t Overuse It   

Before flipping on the switch for your air conditioner, or cranking it up high, consider if you really need it on right now. The more you run the air conditioner and the more often you mess with the thermostat, the more wear and tear you place on your system. Only use air conditioning when your home is uncomfortable, and avoid adjusting the temperature too often. Instead, use a programmable thermostat that helps optimize comfort levels and reduces the use of the unit when not necessary. 

Clean Your AC Unit 

Your air conditioner needs a little TLC every now and then. When your unit is clean, it operates more efficiently, which in turn reduces stress on the components. Follow this central air conditioner maintenance checklist: 

• First, keep an eye on the outside unit and keep it clear of debris. This will allow all the components to maintain efficiency. 
• Next, make sure you are changing the filters once a month to reduce the dust and debris build-up. 
• Last but not least, arrange for a pre and post-season professional cleaning and maintenance call for a thorough cleaning twice a year. 

Is it about time you schedule a professional cleaning? Contact our team at DC Air today. 

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How To Tune-Up Air Conditioner 

Along with professional maintenance and cleaning, your air conditioner needs regular AC tune-ups. When your unit is checked once a year, your technician ensures it remains in tip-top condition. You avoid small problems from turning into major issues which also keeps your repair costs down. Spring is the preferred time to schedule your tune-ups because any required repairs can be taken care of before the heat of summer arrives. Air conditioning preventive maintenance is the most important way to extend the life of your unit. 

Keep Vents Clear   

Your air vents allow the cool air produced by your air conditioner to flow into your rooms freely. If your vents are blocked by furniture, toys, carpets, curtains, etc. your vents block proper airflow which interferes with efficient operation. The harder your unit works, the more wear and tear there is on the components and the sooner it will need to be replaced. 

Clean the Air Ducts 

Duct cleaning isn’t necessary often. In fact, it is something you should only worry about if you feel they are blocked, or if you recently underwent a renovation. A cleaning will clear the ducts of obstructions that can interfere with efficiency. 

Check for Frost   

Pay close attention to the hoses of your system to look for frost. When there are issues with the refrigerant, it can lead to frost build-up on the hose.  The benefits of servicing your air conditioner at least once a year include improved energy efficiency and home comfort as well as extended AC life expectancy.     Get the most out of your AC by using these tips. Want to learn more about AC maintenance? Give our team at DC Air a call today.