Hi there, DIY fans! Sam the Repairman here. I am a licensed and certified handyman, with a particular knack for air conditioning troubles. Over the years of tinkering with various types of units, I've picked up a few tricks to keep your machine running at peak performance. So skip the repair shop visits, and dive into my favorite tips on how you can increase your air conditioner's efficiency.
Keep your Filters Fresh
First off, let's start with the most basic yet often overlooked piece – the filter. Just like a strainer that keeps unwanted particles away from your soup, an AC filter prevents dust, small debris and allergens from being blown back into your space. Blocked filters force your AC to work harder than it should, wearing it out faster and increasing your energy bills.
To prevent this, make it a habit to clean or replace your filters monthly.
Insulate your Air Ducts
Next up – duct insulation. Imagine this, you’re on a refreshing summer road trip, but your cooler has a slim crack that leaks all the ice out on your journey. Somewhat similar is the case with your air conditioning system. Ducts that leak out cool air are counterproductive and lead to what we call, "cooling loss."
Therefore, ensure your ducts are well insulated, preventing any loss of cool air. Believe me, you will notice significant savings on your energy bill.
Thermostat Settings Matter
Did you know that over-cooling doesn’t necessarily mean better comfort? However, it does mean increased electricity bills. An optimal thermostat setting can keep your house cool enough without putting immense pressure on your unit.
Most people find a thermostat setting of around 24-26 °C (75-78 °F) comfortable during summers. So rather than indulging in a winter fantasy in the middle of the summer, find your optimal setting and stick with it.
Add a Shield on the Outside Unit
One trick that many overlook is protecting the outdoor unit from excess heat. Placing an awning or shading device where it doesn’t obstruct airflow can make a real difference to your unit's performance. A shaded area can be significantly cooler than unshaded areas, less heat absorption equates to less work for your air conditioner – sounds good? It is!
Also, remember to keep the outside unit devoid of leaves, plant twigs, or any kind of debris. A clean, shaded outside unit is a happy unit!
Regular Maintenance is a Must
The best way to ensure your AC runs as efficiently as possible is to give it regular check-ups. Consider your unit as a prized possession that needs some TLC (Tender Loving Care) regularly.
A regular check-up can be as simple as:
- Checking the thermostat to ensure it’s working correctly.
- Tightening electrical connections to avoid any dangerous situations.
- Lubricating moving parts. (A non-lubricated part is a trouble waiting to happen)
- Checking the condensate drain. A blocked drain affects humidity levels, and you don't want that!
Summing it Up: Chill Out and Save
Well, folks, those were some of my best tips and suggestions to keep your air conditioning unit running smoothly and efficiently. Remember, a well-maintained unit not only keeps you cool but also helps save on energy bills whilst prolonging the life of your unit.
Remember the keys: fresh filters, insulated ducts, optimized thermostat settings, shaded outdoor units, and regular maintenance. Implement these simple strategies, and you are all set to max out your chill this summer. See you in the next blog!