Maintaining your AC unit not only helps keep your Fountain Hills, AZ area home cool but may also cause it to last longer. In this blog, Shadrach Plumbing & Cooling offers six simple strategies you can use to extend the lifespan of your AC unit.
While advanced technical knowledge or training may not be needed to accomplish some of these tasks, AC maintenance and parts installation are always best left to the professionals.
For regular AC maintenance or AC repairs, contact Shadrach Plumbing & Cooling.
6 Common Sense Tips to Get the Most from Your AC
1. Regular Cleaning
One of the easiest ways to extend the lifespan of your AC unit is to keep it clean. Dust and debris can build up on both the indoor and outdoor components of your AC system. For the indoor unit, make sure to regularly clean or replace the air filters. Most experts recommend doing this every one to three months, depending on usage. For the outdoor unit, keep the area around it clear of plantings and yard debris. If you are comfortable with DIY projects, gently clean the fins with a soft brush to remove any dirt buildup.
Shadrach Plumbing & Cooling offers a comprehensive AC maintenance package that includes changing your air filters. Call our office for more information or to schedule your annual AC tune-up.
2. Yearly Inspections
Having a professional inspect your AC system once a year is crucial. A trained Shadrach HVAC technician can spot issues that you might not notice, such as small leaks or parts that are wearing out. They can also clean internal components that are intricate and difficult to reach. These annual check-ups can prevent small problems from turning into big ones that might require costly repairs or even replacement of the entire unit. Schedule your annual inspection by clicking here.
3. Proper Usage
How you use your AC unit can significantly affect its lifespan. Avoid overworking your system. During very hot days, don’t set the thermostat too low. Keeping it at a moderate temperature can reduce the strain on your AC, helping it last longer. Also, consider using ceiling fans to help circulate the air, making your environment feel cooler without putting extra pressure on the AC.
4. Smart and Programmable Thermostat Installations
Installing a smart or programmable thermostat can greatly improve the efficiency and lifespan of your AC unit. A programmable thermostat allows you to set up schedules, so your Fountain Hills home is cooled down only when it’s occupied. A smart thermostat goes above and beyond. It’s designed to be intuitive, meaning that not only can you program it, but it also learns your comfort behaviors, so it adjusts to the temperatures you regularly choose when you are home.
Both thermostat options are great at controlling energy costs and minimizing usage. Shadrach has many options from which to choose. Contact our office today.
5. Check Insulation and Seals
To make sure your AC unit isn’t working harder than it needs to, check that your home is well insulated. This includes sealing windows and doors to prevent cool air from escaping. Adding insulation to walls and attics can also help maintain the desired temperature inside your home more efficiently. Ensuring that your home is properly sealed and insulated can significantly reduce the workload on your AC unit.
6. Use Window Coverings
Strategically placed window coverings can also extend the lifespan of your AC unit. By blocking out sunlight with blinds, curtains, or shades, you can lower the temperature inside your home naturally. This means your AC doesn’t have to work as hard to cool down your living space. It’s a simple tip that can make a big difference in how often and how hard your AC needs to run.
AC Maintenance with Shadrach Plumbing & Cooling
Extending the lifespan of your AC unit is largely about maintenance and efficient use. By following these six tips offered by Shadrach, you can ensure that your AC runs efficiently for many years.
In addition, regular cleaning and inspections by a Shadrach trained technician along with using more efficient thermostats and better insulation can go a long way. Remember, a well-maintained AC unit not only lasts longer but also runs more economically, saving you money on energy bills and future replacement costs.
Schedule AC maintenance or AC repairs by contacting Shadrach Plumbing & Cooling today. If you want information or an AC replacement, Shadrach can help with that, too!
