Top 10 Tips to Prevent Air Conditioning Problems

There’s practically nothing worse than having to deal with a broken air conditioner in the middle of a heatwave. The initial signs of an imminent breakdown may be subtle—weird noises, odd smells or reduced cooling. Before you know it, these minor issues escalate into full-blown breakdowns. However, with a small amount of planning and scheduled maintenance, you can keep your air conditioner running effortlessly. Here are 10 tricks to prevent AC trouble this summer.

1. Replace the Air Filter Regularly

One easy yet effective tip is to check the air filter each month and replace it when it gets dirty, going no more than 90 days between filter changes. A clean filter facilitates smooth airflow, elevates indoor air quality and improves air conditioning efficiency. A plugged or dirty filter, on the other hand, makes your AC work more than it ought to, which may result in breakdowns.

2. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean and Unobstructed

The outdoor AC unit needs adequate space to intake and exhaust air effectively. On a regular basis check the area around the unit, removing loose debris like leaves, grass clippings or twigs. Then, trim back all vegetation growing within 12 inches of the unit. These strategies can minimize AC problems and encourage optimal performance.

3. Check the Condensate Drain Pan

Air conditioning doesn’t simply cool the air—it also takes out unwanted humidity. This moisture drips into the condensate drain pan and then moves down the drain line. These components can become clogged over time, causing leaks and increasing the likelihood of water damage. Regularly check the drain pan and line for clogs to avert these AC issues.

4. Listen for Strange Noises or Smells

Your air conditioner typically operates with a soft, constant hum. If you hear abnormal grinding, screeching or hissing, you can be pretty sure something’s not right. Similarly, if you sniff out unusual electrical burning smells or musty odors, it’s time to take a closer look at your air conditioner. These issues can indicate several different AC problems, including motor damage or mold growth, and need to be addressed promptly.

5. Keep Your Vents Open

While closing vents in vacant rooms may seem sensible, doing so forms pressure imbalances and decreases system efficiency. To avoid cooling system problems, keep at least 80 percent of your return and supply vents open and unblocked by furniture, rugs and curtains.

6. Install a Programmable Thermostat

Programmable thermostats are intuitive devices that enhance your AC’s operation and prevent problems. Once you program your temperature schedule, you can sit back and unwind while your thermostat does the heavy lifting. Smart models are even more advanced, allowing you to check and adjust your home’s temperature from anywhere or even change the settings with your voice.

7. Check Your Attic Insulation

Air conditioner efficiency doesn’t only entail the unit’s mechanics. The right amount of insulation is also essential for maintaining a comfortable interior, preventing warm air from seeping in and cold air leaking out. The attic is the best place to add insulation to an existing home, so look inside the hatch to find out if the floor is covered with a thick, even layer of insulation. If it doesn't, you may want to add more insulation to enjoy significant energy savings and prevent straining your AC.

8. Avoid Heat-Generating Activities in the Afternoon

Using the oven, stove or clothes dryer when the sun is blazing dramatically increases your AC unit’s workload. When feasible, cook and do laundry in the evening or early morning to cut down on99 unneeded AC activity. When brainstorming what you're going to cook for dinner in the summer, give consideration to reheating leftovers in the microwave, eating uncooked meals like sandwiches and salads, or barbecuing outside on the backyard grill.

9. Run a Ceiling Fan

While a ceiling fan can’t replace an air conditioning system, it can absolutely complement it. Ceiling fans produce a wind chill effect that makes the room feel about 4 degrees cooler. This added comfort lets you set your thermostat to a higher temperature, reducing the workload on your AC system and potentially eliminating AC problems. Just remember to switch off the fan when you exit the room. That's because the wind chill effect cools people, but it doesn’t bring down the temperature in the room.

10. Schedule Annual AC Maintenance

Regular AC tune-ups are a preventative measure aimed at locating and fixing minor issues before they intensify into serious problems. An annual check by a skilled HVAC technician prepares your air conditioner for summer, saving you from undesirable breakdowns and pricey repairs by making sure your AC is working efficiently.

Contact Atmostemp Service Experts for Air Conditioner Service in Voorhees

Now that you know the top ways to avoid air conditioning problems, you can follow these steps to keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long. Whether you need to schedule a regular tune-up or emergency AC repair, Atmostemp Service Experts has you covered. We are focused on providing thorough and efficient maintenance, repairs and installations to meet all your cooling needs. For reliable AC services in your area, call 856-310-4824 today to schedule an appointment with the Experts at Atmostemp Service Experts.