With the onset of the summer months, many people start to rely on their air conditioning system to keep their homes cool and comfortable. However, if your AC system is not well-maintained or prepared for the season, you can easily run into issues that could result in higher energy bills, system inefficiency, or a potential breakdown. Use the steps below to prepare your AC and get ready to chill all summer long.
Follow These 5 Tips Every Year To Prepare Your AC For The Heat
1. Check the filters
Dirty filters will do you and your family no good this year. Dirty filters cause poor cooling and low indoor air quality. When filters are dirty, your AC works harder than it has to, leading to higher energy bills and decreased comfort. ECI recommends homeowners replace their disposable filters or clean their reusable ones at least every month throughout the summer. Filters are important to indoor air quality and health in your home.
2. Clean your outdoor unit
Over the winter months, your outdoor unit has likely built-up dirt, leaves, and debris over the winter that can reduce its efficiency. Overgrown bushes or weeds need to be maintained around your outdoor unit to ensure proper air intake. Make sure to also take a look at the fins on the unit and wash them down with low-pressure water to rinse away dirt and allow for complete airflow. Maintaining at least two feet of clearance between the unit and any nearby bushes or shrubs is recommended.
3. Check your thermostat
If your thermostat uses batteries, make sure they are fresh and ready to work all summer. Upgrading to a smart thermostat is an effective way to reduce energy consumption and save money on your energy bills. Programmable thermostats such as the Trane XL824 Smart Thermostat allow homeowners to set temperatures for different times of the day, ensuring your AC system only operates when needed, creating lower energy bills by reducing cooling when you are away from your home.
4. Schedule your annual AC tune-up with ECI
During an AC tune-up, a technician can inspect and clean your system thoroughly and fix any issues that may have gone unnoticed during the winter months. It is recommended to get an annual tune-up for your cooling system once a year. This maintenance will prolong your system's life and save you money on energy bills.
5. Consider upgrading your AC system
If your AC system is outdated or inefficient, consider upgrading to a newer model that uses less energy and provides better cooling. Newer models with higher SEER ratings can provide better cooling while using less energy, which will result in significantly lower energy bills! Upgrading your AC system may be a hefty investment upfront, but it can pay off in the long run with the money you will be saving on your bills and reduced maintenance costs. ECI offers free consultations and can provide you with any answers you have about upgrading your current system!
Don't sweat it out this summer, let ECI Comfort help you keep your cool. Prepping your AC system is a crucial step in ensuring that you remain cool and comfortable during the hottest days of the year. Proper maintenance and preparation can also save you money on your energy bills and prevent costly repairs down the road. Using these steps above each year to prepare your AC system for summer will keep your system in top condition and ready to keep you cool all summer long.
If you live in the Delaware Valley/Greater Philadelphia area and would like to find comfort within your home, visit our website or give us a call at 215 - 245 - 3200 to learn more
