Just like any other part of your home, you want to be sure that your AC works properly and continues to do so for as long as possible. There are several things you can do to lengthen the lifespan of your air conditioner. With a little work on your end and routine maintenance from a professional, your AC will be able to keep your home cool and comfortable for years to come.

Routine Inspection and Maintenance

To extend the life of your AC to the fullest, maintenance is key. No matter what type of system or model you have working in your home, you should have a professional inspection at least twice a year. This allows for an in depth look at the inner workings of your air conditioner. Here’s what you can expect during a professional tune-up:

• Performance test of the whole system
• Visual review of components to look for areas of concern
• Test to determine the state of the refrigerant charge
• Overall system control testing
• Leak test
• If a service professional suspects a leak, a dye detection test may be necessary

Keep in mind that professional maintenance can lower your energy bills and improve the function and durability of your cooling system. To prevent costly repairs down the road, don’t hesitate to call at the first sign of an issue.

What You Can Do on Your Own

While you should always call a professional if a problem pops up, there are things you can do on your own in between visits to keep things running smoothly. To help extend the life of your AC on your own, try the following:

• Turn it off when you don’t need it. Your AC could use a break every once in a while! If you are going to be out of the house for an extended amount of time, there’s no need to keep it running. It’s also a good idea to turn the thermostat up a little at night when the temperature outside drops.
• Keep it clean. Dust or debris buildup can damage your AC, even if its just on the outside. Units located outdoors, even partially, are more susceptible, so its important to keep it free of dust, dirt and leaves. If they are left to build up, a malfunction is more likely.
• Allow air circulation. Without a proper airflow, sufficient cooling will be difficult. Keep vents free from obstructions.
• Keep your ducts clean. Unless you have a ductless system, you need to keep your ducts clean. Dust, dirt, mold, or mildew buildup can make its way into your air supply.
• Keep an eye out for leaks. Whether its your AC itself or your ducts, you should always keep an eye out for leaks. Leaky ducts or hoses will result in your AC needing more electricity to function and cost you more on your utility bills.

In order to extend the lifespan of your AC and keep it running smoothly, call McHales and schedule your inspection today.  

By McHales