As a Florida homeowner, you rely on your air conditioning system to keep you comfortable during hot, humid weather. With proper maintenance and care, you can extend the life of your AC and avoid costly premature breakdowns. Read on for tips from the experts at Precision Air Solutions on maximizing the lifespan of your cooling equipment.
Keep Up with Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for any mechanical system, and your AC is no exception. The Department of Energy recommends servicing your air conditioner at least once per year. Our licensed technicians perform the following tasks to keep your AC running efficiently:
– Check and tighten connections. We ensure all fittings and pipes are leak-free.
– Clean the coils. Dirty coils reduce cooling capabilities and put extra strain on the compressor.
– Inspect the drain line. Clogs can cause water damage if condensation backs up.
– Check refrigerant charge. Too little refrigerant will decrease cooling. Too much increases energy consumption.
– Examine belts and motors. Worn parts reduce efficiency.
– Clean and replace air filters. Clogged filters block airflow.
– Verify safety switches work properly. Switches prevent accidents when parts malfunction.
– And more! Our comprehensive tune-ups catch small issues before they become big problems.
Regular maintenance allows us to spot minor faults early and correct them before they cause system failure. Your AC will run smoother and last longer.
Use Filter Reminders
Air filters provide an important protective barrier for your AC system. Over time, airflow restrictions lead to strain on components. Replacing filters at recommended intervals prevents this.
Set reminders so you never forget this critical task. Some high-end thermostats even alert you when it’s time to change the filter. Or mark it on your calendar yearly. Your system will thank you!
Clear Debris from the Outdoor Unit
Take a minute periodically to clear grass clippings, leaves, twigs and other debris away from the external AC condenser. Built-up debris obstructs airflow through the unit, reducing its cooling capabilities.
Inspect Exterior Insulation
The insulation wrapping the external condenser and lines should be intact for optimal performance. If this protective layer gets damaged, the system loses cooling capacity. Have it repaired or replaced if necessary.
Seal and Insulate Ductwork
Leaky and uninsulated ducts force your AC system to work harder to cool your home. Inspect ducts for air leaks and insulate any unprotected sections. Proper sealing and insulation maintains cooled airflow and takes pressure off your AC.
Change Air Filters Regularly
We can’t emphasize enough how crucial clean filters are! As airflow becomes restricted, system components like the blower motor get overworked. This speeds up wear and tear. Mark filter changes on your calendar and stick to it.
Schedule a Professional Deep Cleaning
In addition to annual maintenance, periodically book a more thorough deep cleaning service for your AC system. We use specialized sanitizing solutions and tools to thoroughly clean the evaporator coil, blower assembly, drain lines, plenum box, and ductwork.
Deep cleanings remove built-up debris, improving air quality and extending the life of your system. We recommend scheduling every 3-5 years based on use and condition.
Upgrade Older Equipment
Has your current AC system exceeded 10-15 years in operation? Although regularly maintained ACs can serve well for 15-20 years, major components do degrade over time. Upgrading an older, inefficient AC to a new ENERGY STAR model before breakdowns occur is the best way to avoid emergency repairs and prolong cooling system lifespan.
Newer ACs feature major engineering and efficiency improvements. Our team would be happy to assess your home and provide sound recommendations on replacement systems that meet your needs and budget.
Watch for Warning Signs
Learn to spot symptoms of potential AC problems. Noticing issues early allows for quicker, less expensive repairs. Be on the lookout for:
– Increased cooling costs: If your bills are spiking, your AC may be using more energy to maintain temperature. Have your HVAC technician examine the system.
– Strange new sounds: Unusual noises like grinding, knocking or squealing indicate a fault.
– Poor airflow: If air coming from vents seems too weak, restricted airflow could be straining the system.
– Intermittent operation: Units that turn off unexpectedly need professional attention to identify underlying causes.
Call Precision Air Solutions if you observe any of these warning signs or just have general AC concerns. We have the skills and experience to diagnose issues and restore peak performance.
Protect Your Investment
Your air conditioning system was a major investment. With proper care and maintenance from the team at Precision Air Solutions, it can provide many years of reliable cooling without breaking down prematurely. Contact us today at 407-755-7777 to schedule AC service and ensure your system operates smoothly all season long. Stay cool, Central Florida!
