As spring enters full swing, it’s the perfect time to take a break from work and enjoy some time in the sun. Inevitably, however, the mild September days will fade into summer and the heat will become too much to handle. Although we all may feel familiar with our air conditioners’ basic ins and outs, there are common pitfalls that can lead to unnecessary frustration. In some cases, getting the most out of your air conditioning unit can be tricky, and common mistakes can lead to poor performance and sky-high energy bills. In this blog post, we will discuss six air conditioning mistakes you may be making – and how to fix them in no time. If you suspect your air conditioner is not working as efficiently as it could be, be sure to read on.
Table of Contents
- 1 1: You're not cleaning and changing your air conditioner's filters
- 2 2: You're not scheduling regular maintenance
- 3 3: You're using the wrong size air conditioner
- 4 4: You're not using your thermostat correctly
- 5 5: Your air conditioner has dirty coils
- 6 6: You're not making use of your fans
- 7 We’re always here to help!
1: You're not cleaning and changing your air conditioner's filters
One of the most important things you can do for your AC unit is to clean and change its filters regularly. Generally, air conditioning filters should be cleaned on a monthly basis. Depending on your filter type, you may also need to replace your unit’s filters as often as every 90 days. Not only will this help your air conditioner run more efficiently, but it will also improve indoor air quality. Spring is particularly important to be mindful of this, as many of our friends and family suffer from seasonal allergies triggered by pollen and dust. Staying on top of your system’s filters is also essential to helping it smoothly and for as long as possible. Neglected filters can lead to several problems, such as delays in the refrigerant cycle, ice buildup, water leaks, and decreased airflow.
If you’re unsure how to clean or change your air conditioner’s filters, consult your unit’s manual or contact a local air conditioning maintenance specialist for a professional and worry-free service. Changing and cleaning your air conditioner’s filters is a simple and effective way to prolong its lifespan and enjoy clean, cool air all spring and summer.
2: You're not scheduling regular maintenance
Like any complex appliance, your air conditioner needs regular maintenance to keep running smoothly. Scheduling a tune-up with a qualified technician at least once a year can help identify potential problems before they become major repairs. Regular air conditioning maintenance will also help your unit run more efficiently, saving you money on your energy bills. At REQ Air Conditioning Service, our team of qualified technicians are always happy to help. For more information about the importance of HVAC maintenance, and for detailed instruction on how to perform some basic AC upkeep, read our informative article, “Air Conditioning Maintenance 101: Essential Tips for Keeping Your HVAC Running Smoothly”.
3: You're using the wrong size air conditioner
Another common mistake is using an air conditioner that’s too small or too large for your needs. Air conditioners should be selected based on the space they need to cool. If you have a unit that’s too small, it won’t be able to cool your entire home effectively. On the other hand, if you have a unit that’s too large, it will cycle on and off more frequently, which can waste energy and cause unnecessary wear and tear. The best way to find out what size air conditioner you need is to consult with a professional. They will consider factors like the layout of your home, insulation, windows, and doors when making a recommendation. For an essential guide to selecting an energy-efficient air conditioner, check out our blog post on how to save money while staying cool.
4: You're not using your thermostat correctly
One of the best ways to save money on your air conditioning bills is to use your thermostat wisely. Set the temperature a few degrees higher than usual when you’re not home to reduce energy consumption without making a big difference in comfort. And when you are home, try to keep the temperature as consistent as possible. Sudden changes can cause your AC unit to work harder – and use more energy. If you have a programmable thermostat, take advantage of its features! You can typically set it to lower the temperature when you’re away from home or asleep and raise it again when needed. If you have a zoning controller installed, you can use it to direct cool air to the rooms that need it most and save energy by avoiding cooling spaces unnecessarily. Finally, keep your blinds or curtains closed during the day to block out the heat from the sun and keep your home cooler.
5: Your air conditioner has dirty coils
Air conditioners have coils that help to cool the air as it passes through. Over time, these coils can become dirty or covered in dust. When this happens, the efficiency of your AC unit decreases, and it has to work harder to cool your home. This can waste energy and cost you more money on your energy bills. Be sure to clean your AC unit’s coils regularly to prevent this from happening. You can typically do this yourself with a brush or vacuum attachment. However, if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, you can always call on a professional to do it for you.
6: You're not making use of your fans
Ceiling fans and other portable fans can be a great supplementary tool to keep cool during the summer months. Ceiling fans circulate the air in your home, making it feel cooler without actually changing the temperature. This can help you save money on your energy bills by allowing you to set your thermostat at a higher temperature. Just like your HVAC, portable fans can also be used to cool specific areas of your home as needed. This can save energy by avoiding the need to cool your entire home when only one room is in use.
We’re always here to help!
