There are many scenarios where AC repairs are unavoidable, such as when your unit is at the end of its lifespan and you’re trying to get as much service from it as possible. That said, there are also numerous scenarios where you can save money by reducing the risk of your AC breaking down. Keep reading to find out what you can do to avoid unnecessary AC repairs.
Change the Air Filter Regularly
One of the simplest ways to avoid unnecessary AC repairs is to change your air filter regularly. It’s generally recommended to change your air filter at least once every one to three months. It’s important to realize that your air filter will accumulate dust and dirt over time. It can also get worn out and seriously impact the efficiency of your unit. Because proper airflow is inhibited, your AC has to work harder to achieve the desired temperature, so it experiences wear and tear at a faster rate. This will shorten the unit’s life expectancy, resulting in a unit that frequently breaks down.
Stay On Top of Minor Repairs
From time to time, your AC might need repair. When you notice that there’s something wrong with your AC, it’s important to act fast before the situation gets worse. Common air conditioning problems that might plague your unit include an AC refrigerant leak or an AC unit that’s producing strange noises or smells. Whatever the issue is, staying on top of tinier fixes prevents additional repairs that might be needed because you let the problem get worse.
Hire a Professional for Repairs
If you need AC repairs, it’s best to hire a licensed and experienced professional. You might be tempted to save money by taking a DIY approach, but a small mistake can cost you big down the line. The right professional will have the tools and know-how to inspect your AC and determine the cause of the problem. They will recommend the best solution to keep your AC in good condition so that you won’t need to keep paying for frequent repairs in the future.
Install a Smart Thermostat
When you’re trying to avoid unnecessary AC repairs, you should aim to reduce your unit’s workload. The less your unit has to do, the less wear and tear it experiences. Installing a smart thermostat can help in this regard. A smart thermostat is a device that allows you to regulate your home’s AC so that your unit has less work to do when you’re not home. This will make your AC more energy-efficient and reduce wear and tear on your HVAC system.
Air Seal and Insulate Your Home
There are many things you can do to air seal your home. For instance, it’s recommended that you seal exterior air leaks as well as seal the basement, attic, or crawlspace. The idea is to increase the overall efficiency of your home. This not only helps you avoid unnecessary AC repairs but it has the added benefit of helping you reduce your energy costs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, upgrading to an energy-efficient air conditioner and implementing other actions to keep your home cool can help you lower cooling costs by 20% to 50%. When you air seal your home, your AC doesn’t have to work as hard, and this comes with many benefits.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
It’s highly recommended that you schedule annual AC maintenance, even when your AC seems to be operating smoothly. The reason for regular maintenance is to ensure the efficiency of your air conditioner. When you schedule professional AC maintenance, the technician will perform a series of tasks to optimize the efficiency of your AC unit. Typically, an AC maintenance checklist includes tasks like checking and cleaning the condenser coil, inspecting and testing all controls, lubricating moving parts, checking refrigerant charge, and more.
Besides hiring a professional, there are also things you can do when it comes to AC maintenance. You can make sure there’s no debris surrounding the AC unit or keep the external unit, such as the condenser fan, clean. By doing this, you can increase the lifespan of your AC and prevent the need for frequent repairs down the line.
Frequent AC repairs can be a huge strain on your pocket. By applying these tips, you can significantly reduce AC repair costs and get the most out of your unit. The best thing you can do in this scenario is to always hire a professional to take a look at your AC. Contact Mims Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC today to schedule quality AC repairs or maintenance before your unit breaks down completely.