An air conditioner isn’t exactly a small investment, and it’s important to do whatever you can to get the most out of that investment. In general, you’ll get anywhere from 10 to 15 years out of your air conditioner, but the better you take care of your system, the longer it will last. At Tri-Elite Advisors, we know that no homeowner wants to have to prematurely replace their air conditioner, or get fewer years out of their investment. That’s why we’ve come up with this list of tips to help you extend the life of your air conditioner:
#1 Replace the filters on a regular basis
When dirt, allergens and debris start to build up your HVAC system’s filters, your air conditioner has to work a lot harder to force air through them. In fact, dirty filters have such a large impact on the efficiency of your system that, according to energy.gov, replacing them when they are dirty could help you lower your energy consumption by up to 15 percent. As a general rule, your HVAC filters should be replaced every three months or so, but keep a close eye on them, and don’t hesitate to change them out early if they become clogged or dirty.
#2 Don’t run the humidifier when you run the air conditioner
Have you ever noticed that the air seems to get dryer when you run the air conditioner? Many people are under the misconception that air conditioners only force cool air throughout the home, but they also dehumidify as well. This is because humidity holds in heat, and removing it from your home helps it to feel a lot cooler. When you run your humidifier at the same time as you run your air conditioner, you are just adding more humidity in the air that your air conditioner will work to remove, making it work harder than it should and shortening its life.
#3 Consider installing a programmable thermostat in your home
Believe it or not, the kind of thermostat you have can make a huge difference in how many years you’ll get out of your air conditioner. Programmable thermostats keep the temperature in your home at a consistent level, which reduces the number of on-and-off cycles your air conditioner will have to go through. Those on-and-off cycles can add up and take a toll on your system. Additionally, when it is particularly hot outside, a programmable thermostat helps to prevent your system from overworking.
#4 Keep your system properly maintained
When it comes to extending the life of your air conditioner, almost nothing is more important than preventive maintenance. Getting the regular HVAC service you need keeps all of the parts in your system operating smoothly and at their optimal levels.
An air conditioner is a big investment, but there are many things you can do to extend the life of your system and get more out of that investment. In our next blog, we’ll be going over a few more steps you can take to extend the life of your air conditioner.
#5 Make sure that your vents are clear and open
In order to actually feel all of that cold air that your air conditioner is creating, the vents in your home have to be open and unobstructed. Some people close vents to rooms they aren’t currently using in an attempt to save energy, but since your system is designed to keep your whole home at a consistent temperature, this can be counterproductive. If your vents are closed or blocked by furniture, it will only make your air conditioner work harder to try to keep those areas the same temperature as the rest of your home.
#6 Use a fan
As much as you can, help your air conditioner out by supplementing it with a fan. Fans are much more effective than most people think, and using a fan will allow you to turn your thermostat down a few degrees, making it possible to give your air conditioner a bit of a break. Keep in mind that fans only cool off people, not rooms, so make sure you turn it off when you aren’t there to enjoy its effects.
#7 Keep your system free of debris
Your outdoor unit can become clogged with twigs, leaves and other debris that can slow it down and force it to work harder. It’s important to inspect your system frequently to ensure that it is clear of debris. Another great way to ensure that your system won’t get bogged down by debris is to keep bushes, trees and other plants trimmed away from the unit.
#8 Use blinds and curtains in your home
The more you can keep your home cool without having to rely on your air conditioner, the better. Since the sunshine can bring a great deal of warmth into your home, using blinds and curtains can be an effective way to keep your air conditioner from having to work harder than it has to. Keeping the shades drawn might make you feel like a recluse, but it’s better than giving your air conditioner even more heat to counteract.
Why you should choose Tri-Elite Advisors HVAC to keep your air conditioner in check
Choosing Tri-Elite Advisors to maintain your air conditioner ensures optimal performance, energy efficiency, and extended system lifespan. Our experienced technicians provide thorough inspections, cleaning, and tune-ups to prevent breakdowns and costly repairs. With a commitment to 24/7 availability and exceptional customer service, we help you enjoy consistent cooling and peace of mind during the hottest months. Trust Tri-Elite Advisors for professional air conditioner maintenance that keeps your system running smoothly year after year.