Your air conditioning system is essential to maintain a comfortable environment in your home. Let’s face it, not having a working AC during the summer months can be uncomfortable and especially dangerous to your well-being! It’s crucial to ensure your AC unit is in top shape and ready to cool your living spaces efficiently and effectively. That’s where we come in!
At Veteran Air, we believe that a well-maintained AC system doesn’t just work better; it lasts longer and keeps your energy bills down. Here, we’ll take you through some important steps to keep your AC running optimally all year round.
AC Maintenance Tasks
Add the following maintenance tasks to your calendar and call our team at Veteran Air to keep your HVAC system running smoothly all year long!
Master the Basics: Vacuum the Vents
One of the simplest yet often overlooked maintenance tasks is vacuuming your AC vents. Dust, dirt, and other debris can accumulate over time, blocking the airflow and making your unit work harder than necessary.
Regularly vacuuming the vents can ensure uninterrupted, efficient airflow, contributing to the overall performance of your air conditioning system.
When vacuuming the vents, use the soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to prevent damaging the vents. After vacuuming, you can also consider wiping the vent covers with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dust.
Change Your Filter Regularly
Your AC’s air filter is its first line of defense against airborne particles. If the filter is clogged, your AC unit has to work harder, reducing its efficiency and lifespan. We recommend changing your filter at least once every 60 days.
If you have pets, or if anyone in your home has allergies, consider changing the filter even more frequently – as often as every 30 days.
For effective filter changing, remember to turn off your AC before you start.
- Choosing the Right Filter for Your AC Unit: Filters come in different types and sizes, so you need to ensure you choose the right one for your system. Look at the MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating on the filter – a higher MERV rating means the filter can trap smaller particles, but it also makes your AC work harder.
Typically, a MERV rating between 8 and 11 is sufficient for most households.
Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear
Your outdoor unit is responsible for expelling the heat from your home to the outside environment. However, if it’s surrounded by weeds, plants, or debris, it can’t effectively release heat, forcing your AC to work overtime. Ensure there’s at least a 2-foot clearance on all sides and check regularly to remove any accumulated leaves or branches.
If you have pets, you may want to fence off the outdoor unit to keep your pets from laying on or against it.
Don’t Skip Annual Maintenance
Annual maintenance is a crucial part of keeping your AC running smoothly. A professional technician can spot potential issues before they become major problems, ensuring that your unit is running as efficiently as possible.
At Veteran Air, our skilled team can perform a comprehensive check and tune-up of your system keeping it in optimal shape throughout the seasons!
More Useful Info > Why You Should Have a Programmable Thermostat
Operating Your AC System Safely
While carrying out these maintenance tasks, remember safety is paramount. Ensure the AC system is off before you begin any cleaning or maintenance work. Remember to steer clear of any DIY fixes and to always call a professional.
Not only is it dangerous if you’re not properly trained with the right tools, but you may cause costly damage.
Ready for a Year of Cool Comfort?
Regular AC maintenance isn’t just about ensuring a cool, comfortable home. It’s also about energy efficiency, the longevity of your AC system, and even the health of your household. Don’t wait for a breakdown to pay attention to your air conditioning system!
At Veteran Air, we are experts in all things HVAC and are dedicated to helping our community stay cool and comfortable all year round. Whether you need help choosing the right filter, scheduling regular maintenance, or have questions about your AC system, we’re here to assist.
Reach out to us today and let our experts help you maintain your AC system for year-round comfort.
