How Do I Get the Best Out of My Air Conditioner?
There are many things that you can do to make your air conditioning unit perform at its peak performance. One of the things you can do is check for air leaks. Clean your air conditioner’s filter is another way you can improve its efficiency. Finally, make sure to vent your home to improve air flow and reduce the possibility of condensation in the coils. These simple tasks will help your unit run more efficiently and save you money over the long-term.
Adjusting your thermostat
Depending on your preferences, adjusting your thermostat can help you get the most out of your air conditioning system. Some people like a warmer home, while others prefer a cooler environment. In either case, you can adjust the thermostat to maintain the comfort level you like and save money on energy. Stewart HVAC can help you adjust your thermostat. He has been in the HVAC industry for 25 years. He is a certified forced-air heating and cooling contractor.
Checking for air leaks
A candle is a simple way to check for air leaks. Hold a candle near any leakage areas and turn off the furnace and air conditioner. If the flame flickers, you probably have an air leak. If the flame does not flicker, it is possible that your ductwork is leaking. It is a good idea to call a professional to fix the problem.
Cleaning the filter of your air conditioner
It is important to clean your air conditioner filter if it has become less efficient in recent weeks. This helps to keep your air conditioner working at its best. However, there are some things you can do in order to get the best performance. Turn off your air conditioner, and vacuum the filter area. Make sure to use a soft brush or vacuum attachment to get rid of dirt, and only use water and a mild detergent. The filter can also be vacuumed to remove any dust or allergens.
Ventilating your home
Modern homes are not as drafty as houses built seventy years ago. Ventilation is now more difficult than ever. There are two options for ventilation: mechanical or natural. Natural ventilation involves opening windows or doors. Mechanical ventilation involves using fans to pull or push air into the house. However, accidental air movement is not considered to be ventilation. Your home’s features, priorities, and the amount of ventilation you can afford will all impact how your air conditioner works.
Checking for drafts
Although many people take their air conditioner for granted there are ways to improve its performance without spending a lot of money. The most obvious is checking for drafts. Drafts can come from various places, including unfinished basements, uninsulated attics, and even HVAC vents. The easiest way to spot them is with a flashlight. Candles also work well in this situation, as they flicker indicating drafts.
Cleaning your condenser
Regularly clean your condenser to get the most out of your air conditioner. Use a commercial air conditioning coil cleaner to remove stubborn dirt. To avoid injury, make sure you wear gloves. You can clean the coils by using a hose to spray the inside of your unit. Use a biodegradable foaming cleaner mixed with water. Spray the coils with the solution and let it sit for 10 minutes. The water from the condenser will push out dirt. Turn the air conditioner on once you have finished cleaning.
